CVE-2025-60073 identifies a vulnerability in the Processby Responsive Sidebar plugin, specifically an improper control of the filename used in PHP include or require statements. This flaw allows an attacker to perform Remote File Inclusion (RFI), where malicious files hosted remotely can be included and executed on the vulnerable server. The vulnerability affects versions up to 1.2.2 of the Responsive Sidebar plugin. RFI vulnerabilities arise when user input is not properly sanitized before being used in file inclusion functions, enabling attackers to inject arbitrary file paths or URLs. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The CVSS score of 7.5 (high) reflects the network attack vector, high impact on all security properties, but with the requirement of user interaction and high attack complexity. No authentication is required, increasing the risk profile. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s nature makes it a critical concern for web applications relying on this plugin. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate attention to mitigate potential risks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those operating websites or web applications using the Processby Responsive Sidebar plugin in PHP environments. Exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, defacement, or service disruption. The impact extends to loss of sensitive customer data, intellectual property, and operational downtime, which can have regulatory and reputational consequences under GDPR and other data protection laws. Organizations with public-facing web servers are particularly vulnerable, as attackers can remotely exploit the flaw without authentication. The requirement for user interaction may limit automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in scenarios involving social engineering or phishing. The high attack complexity may reduce the likelihood of widespread exploitation but targeted attacks against high-value European entities remain plausible. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation.

1. Immediately audit all web applications to identify the use of the Processby Responsive Sidebar plugin and determine affected versions. 2. Apply vendor patches or updates as soon as they become available; if no patch exists, consider disabling or removing the plugin temporarily. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that influence file inclusion to prevent injection of malicious paths or URLs. 4. Configure PHP settings to disable remote file inclusion (e.g., setting 'allow_url_include' to 'Off' in php.ini) to reduce attack surface. 5. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 6. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests that attempt to include remote files or unusual URL parameters. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks of social engineering that could trigger user interaction required for exploitation. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities in PHP applications.