CVE-2025-60196 is a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability found in the Clearblue® Ovulation Calculator PHP application, specifically in versions up to 1.2.4. The root cause is improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, allowing an attacker to supply a remote file path that the application will include and execute. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability requires network access and low privileges but does not require user interaction, making it easier to exploit remotely. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.5 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with attack complexity rated as high and privileges required as low. The flaw can be exploited to steal sensitive user data, modify application behavior, or disrupt service availability. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be treated as a critical risk. The affected product is used primarily in fertility and healthcare contexts, where data sensitivity and service reliability are paramount. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices around file inclusion and input validation in PHP applications.

For European organizations, particularly healthcare providers, fertility clinics, and related service providers using the Clearblue® Ovulation Calculator, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive personal health data, violating GDPR and other privacy regulations, resulting in legal and financial penalties. Integrity of the application and its data could be compromised, potentially leading to incorrect medical advice or treatment decisions. Availability may also be impacted if attackers disrupt the service or deploy ransomware. The breach of trust and reputational damage could be severe, especially in countries with stringent data protection laws. Additionally, healthcare infrastructure is often targeted by cybercriminals and nation-state actors, increasing the likelihood of targeted attacks. The vulnerability’s network accessibility and lack of need for user interaction increase the risk of widespread exploitation if not promptly mitigated.

1. Monitor Clearblue vendor communications closely for official patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-60196 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters used in include or require statements to prevent injection of remote file paths. 3. Configure PHP settings to disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives to prevent remote file inclusion. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 5. Restrict file inclusion paths to known safe directories using PHP’s open_basedir directive. 6. Conduct thorough code reviews and security testing of the affected application components to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. 7. Implement network segmentation and least privilege principles to limit the impact of a potential compromise. 8. Maintain regular backups of application data and configurations to enable recovery in case of an attack. 9. Educate IT and security teams about the specific risks of RFI vulnerabilities and the importance of timely patching and monitoring.