CVE-2025-6253 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the UiCore Elements – Free Elementor widgets and templates plugin for WordPress, versions up to and including 1.3.0. The vulnerability arises from a missing authorization check in the prepare_template() function, which fails to verify user capabilities before processing a filename parameter. This lack of access control allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit an Arbitrary File Read flaw, enabling them to read arbitrary files on the server hosting the WordPress site. Since the vulnerability requires no authentication or user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network, it poses a significant risk. The attacker can potentially access sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other private data stored on the server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization), indicating that the root cause is insufficient enforcement of access controls. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5 (high), reflecting the ease of exploitation (network vector, no privileges required, no user interaction) and the high impact on confidentiality, while integrity and availability remain unaffected. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet, which suggests that organizations using this plugin should prioritize mitigation efforts.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored on web servers running vulnerable versions of the UiCore Elements plugin. Given the widespread use of WordPress and Elementor-based plugins across European businesses, including SMEs and large enterprises, the risk is substantial. Exposure of configuration files or database credentials could facilitate further attacks such as data breaches, privilege escalation, or lateral movement within networks. This is particularly critical for organizations subject to GDPR and other data protection regulations, as unauthorized data disclosure could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, sectors with high-value targets such as finance, healthcare, and government entities in Europe could face increased risk if their websites use this plugin. The vulnerability’s ease of exploitation and lack of authentication requirements make it attractive for opportunistic attackers and automated scanning tools, increasing the likelihood of exploitation if unmitigated.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the UiCore Elements – Free Elementor widgets and templates plugin, especially versions up to 1.3.0. Until an official patch is released, organizations should consider the following specific mitigations: 1) Disable or remove the vulnerable plugin if it is not essential to website functionality. 2) Restrict access to the WordPress installation and plugin directories via web server configuration (e.g., using .htaccess rules or equivalent) to prevent unauthorized file reads. 3) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the prepare_template() function or unusual file path parameters. 4) Monitor web server logs for anomalous access patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Harden WordPress security by limiting file permissions and ensuring that sensitive files are not accessible via the web root. 6) Stay alert for official patches or updates from the vendor and apply them promptly once available. 7) Conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans focusing on WordPress plugins to identify similar risks proactively.