CVE-2025-62055 is a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability found in the Elated-Themes Academist WordPress theme, affecting all versions prior to 1.3. The vulnerability stems from improper validation and control of filenames used in PHP include or require statements. Specifically, the theme allows an authenticated user with low privileges to manipulate the filename parameter to include remote files from attacker-controlled servers. This flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely, leading to full compromise of the confidentiality and integrity of the affected web server and potentially the underlying network. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and can be exploited over the network, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.1, indicating high severity, with attack vector network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality and integrity (C:H/I:H/A:N). Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress themes make it a critical concern for site administrators. The vulnerability was published on November 6, 2025, and no official patches or updates are currently linked, but upgrading to version 1.3 or later is expected to resolve the issue. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to data theft, defacement, or pivoting within the victim's network.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to websites running the Academist theme prior to version 1.3. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, modification or deletion of data, and potential full compromise of web servers. This can disrupt business operations, damage reputation, and lead to regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR where personal data exposure is involved. The vulnerability's network-based attack vector means that any externally accessible WordPress site using the vulnerable theme is at risk. Given the high adoption of WordPress in Europe and the popularity of Elated-Themes products, the threat surface is considerable. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to implant backdoors, conduct phishing campaigns, or use compromised servers as launchpads for further attacks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency for mitigation, as proof-of-concept exploits could emerge rapidly.

1. Immediately update the Academist theme to version 1.3 or later once the patch is officially released by Elated-Themes. 2. Until an update is available, restrict file inclusion paths by configuring PHP settings such as 'allow_url_include' to 'Off' and 'open_basedir' to limit accessible directories. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-controllable parameters related to file inclusion in custom code or theme modifications. 4. Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block suspicious remote file inclusion attempts targeting the affected theme. 5. Limit privileges of WordPress users to the minimum necessary, as exploitation requires at least low-level authenticated access. 6. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests or errors related to file inclusion. 7. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability scans focusing on WordPress themes and plugins. 8. Educate site administrators about the risks of installing untrusted themes or plugins and the importance of timely updates.