CVE-2025-60073 is a vulnerability identified in the Processby Responsive Sidebar plugin, specifically versions up to and including 1.2.2. The issue arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, enabling Remote File Inclusion (RFI). RFI vulnerabilities allow an attacker to include and execute remote malicious PHP code on the target server by manipulating input parameters that control file inclusion. This can lead to complete server compromise, including unauthorized data access, code execution, and denial of service. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without requiring authentication, but it requires user interaction, such as clicking a crafted link or visiting a malicious page. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting high severity due to the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with the complexity of exploitation being moderate (high attack complexity). No official patches or updates are currently listed, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date (November 6, 2025). The vulnerability affects web applications using the Responsive Sidebar plugin, which is commonly integrated into PHP-based content management systems or custom websites. Attackers exploiting this flaw could execute arbitrary PHP code, leading to data theft, website defacement, or pivoting within the network. The vulnerability underscores the importance of validating and sanitizing user inputs that influence file inclusion paths in PHP applications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-60073 can be severe. Many European enterprises and public sector entities rely on PHP-based web applications and plugins like Responsive Sidebar for website functionality and user interface enhancements. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, including personal data protected under GDPR, resulting in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The integrity of web content and backend systems could be compromised, enabling attackers to inject malicious code, deface websites, or use the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the corporate network. Availability may also be affected if attackers deploy denial-of-service payloads or ransomware. Given the high CVSS score and the nature of the vulnerability, organizations with public-facing web infrastructure are particularly at risk. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk, as proof-of-concept exploits could emerge rapidly. The impact is magnified in sectors with critical online services such as finance, healthcare, and government, where service disruption or data breaches have significant consequences.

1. Immediate patching or upgrading of the Processby Responsive Sidebar plugin to a version that addresses the vulnerability once available. 2. If no patch is available, disable or remove the plugin from production environments to eliminate the attack surface. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that influence file inclusion, ensuring only allowed local files can be included. 4. Configure PHP settings to disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives to prevent remote file inclusion. 5. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts and malicious payloads targeting PHP applications. 6. Conduct thorough code reviews and security audits of custom PHP code integrating the plugin to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. 7. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests or errors related to file inclusion attempts. 8. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion and input handling. 9. Establish incident response plans to quickly contain and remediate any exploitation attempts. 10. Use network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised web server on internal systems.