CVE-2025-60059 is a vulnerability classified as 'Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program,' commonly referred to as a PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) flaw. It affects the axiomthemes smart SEO plugin, versions up to 2.12. The vulnerability arises because the plugin does not properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input used in PHP include or require statements. This allows an attacker to manipulate the filename parameter to include arbitrary files from the local filesystem. Exploiting this flaw can lead to disclosure of sensitive files (e.g., configuration files containing credentials), execution of arbitrary PHP code if combined with other vulnerabilities, and ultimately full compromise of the web server hosting the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.1, indicating high severity with network attack vector, high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of the vulnerability makes it a prime target for attackers seeking to escalate access or deface websites. The plugin is typically used in WordPress environments to enhance SEO capabilities, making it a common target in web application attacks. The vulnerability was reserved in late September 2025 and published in December 2025, with no patches currently available, increasing the urgency for mitigation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-60059 can be severe. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including customer information, internal documents, and credentials, violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. Integrity of websites and data can be compromised, allowing attackers to modify content, inject malicious code, or pivot to internal networks. Availability may also be affected if attackers disrupt services or deploy ransomware. Organizations relying on the affected smart SEO plugin in their WordPress infrastructure are at risk of website defacement, loss of customer trust, and potential regulatory fines. The remote, unauthenticated nature of the attack vector means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability at scale, increasing the likelihood of widespread incidents. Given the critical role of SEO plugins in digital presence, disruption can also impact business operations and revenue.

1. Immediate monitoring for any suspicious file inclusion attempts in web server and application logs, focusing on unusual requests targeting the smart SEO plugin. 2. Restrict PHP include paths using open_basedir or similar PHP configuration directives to limit accessible files to necessary directories only. 3. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities, especially targeting the affected plugin endpoints. 4. Isolate WordPress instances running the vulnerable plugin in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromised. 5. Prepare for patch deployment by closely monitoring vendor announcements or community advisories for updates addressing CVE-2025-60059. 6. As a temporary workaround, disable or remove the smart SEO plugin if feasible until a patch is available. 7. Conduct regular backups of website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 8. Educate web administrators about the risks of file inclusion vulnerabilities and best practices for plugin management and input validation.