CVE-2025-62045 is a remote file inclusion vulnerability found in CodexThemes TheGem Theme Elements plugin for WPBakery, affecting all versions up to and including 5.10.5.1. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, allowing an attacker to supply a remote URL or local file path that the application will include and execute. This flaw enables an attacker with low privileges to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected WordPress site. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network, with only low privileges needed, increasing the attack surface significantly. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 8.1, reflecting high impact on confidentiality and integrity, though availability is not affected. No known public exploits have been reported yet, but the nature of the vulnerability makes it a prime target for attackers seeking to inject backdoors, steal sensitive data, or deface websites. TheGem theme is popular among WordPress users, particularly for e-commerce and business sites, making this vulnerability a significant risk. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, so users must monitor vendor advisories closely. The vulnerability is classified as an improper control of filename for include/require statement, a common and dangerous PHP security flaw that can lead to remote code execution if exploited.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious threat to WordPress-based websites using TheGem Theme Elements plugin. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized remote code execution, resulting in data breaches, website defacement, or use of compromised sites as pivot points for further network intrusion. Confidentiality is severely impacted as attackers can access sensitive customer data, credentials, and business information. Integrity is also compromised since attackers can modify website content or inject malicious scripts, potentially damaging brand reputation and customer trust. Although availability is not directly affected, secondary impacts such as site downtime due to remediation or defacement can occur. Organizations in sectors like e-commerce, finance, and government, which rely heavily on WordPress for their web presence, are particularly at risk. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation without user interaction increases the likelihood of automated attacks and widespread compromise. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive defense, but this may change rapidly once exploit code becomes available.

Immediate mitigation steps include monitoring official CodexThemes and WPBakery channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-62045 and applying updates as soon as they are released. Until a patch is available, organizations should consider disabling or removing the TheGem Theme Elements plugin if feasible. Manual code review and hardening can be performed by restricting the include/require statements to only allow local, validated file paths and rejecting any user-supplied input that could lead to remote file inclusion. Implementing Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to exploit file inclusion parameters can reduce risk. Additionally, limiting the privileges of the web server user and PHP process can contain potential damage from exploitation. Regularly auditing WordPress plugins and themes for updates and vulnerabilities, and maintaining strong backup and incident response plans, will improve resilience. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual outbound connections from web servers can help detect exploitation attempts early. Finally, educating site administrators about the risks of using outdated or untrusted plugins is essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities.