CVE-2025-62054 is a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability found in the favethemes Houzez Theme - Functionality WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions up to 4.1.8. The vulnerability stems from improper validation and control over filenames used in PHP include or require statements within the plugin's code. This flaw allows an attacker to remotely specify a malicious file to be included and executed by the server, potentially leading to remote code execution (RCE). The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.5 indicates a high severity, with an attack vector over the network (AV:N), requiring low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have some level of access, such as a low-privileged authenticated user, which is common in WordPress environments where user registration or compromised credentials can be leveraged. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, upload backdoors, deface websites, or pivot into internal networks. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities and the popularity of WordPress themes make this a critical issue to address promptly. The Houzez theme is widely used in real estate websites, which often handle sensitive client data and financial transactions, increasing the potential impact of a successful attack.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62054 can be severe. Real estate companies and agencies using the Houzez theme may face data breaches exposing client personal and financial information, leading to regulatory penalties under GDPR. Website defacement or downtime can damage brand reputation and cause loss of business. The ability to execute arbitrary code remotely can also allow attackers to establish persistent footholds, launch further attacks within corporate networks, or use compromised servers for malicious activities such as phishing or distributing malware. Given the high adoption of WordPress and the Houzez theme in European real estate markets, the threat could affect a broad range of organizations, from small agencies to large property firms. Additionally, the disruption of online services can impact customer trust and operational continuity, especially in countries with mature digital real estate markets.

1. Immediate patching: Organizations should monitor for official patches or updates from favethemes and apply them promptly once available. 2. Input validation: Implement strict validation and sanitization of any user-supplied input that could influence file inclusion paths. 3. Principle of least privilege: Limit user privileges to reduce the risk of low-privileged users exploiting the vulnerability. 4. Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy and configure WAFs with custom rules to detect and block attempts to exploit RFI vulnerabilities, such as suspicious include or require statements. 5. Disable remote file inclusion: Configure PHP settings to disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen to prevent remote file inclusion via URL. 6. File integrity monitoring: Use monitoring tools to detect unauthorized changes to theme files or unexpected file inclusions. 7. Network segmentation: Isolate web servers to limit lateral movement if compromise occurs. 8. Regular backups: Maintain secure, tested backups to enable recovery in case of compromise. 9. Security awareness: Educate administrators about the risks and signs of exploitation attempts.