CVE-2025-62868 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-98, which involves improper control of filenames used in PHP include or require statements. This flaw exists in the Edge-Themes Edge CPT plugin, versions up to 1.4, allowing an attacker to perform Remote File Inclusion (RFI). RFI vulnerabilities occur when an application dynamically includes external files without properly validating or sanitizing user input, enabling attackers to supply malicious URLs or file paths. Successful exploitation allows remote code execution, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.1 reflects a high severity, with attack vector being network (AV:N), requiring high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability poses a critical risk due to the nature of PHP file inclusion mechanisms and the widespread use of the Edge CPT plugin in WordPress environments. The vulnerability was published on October 24, 2025, and no patches are currently linked, indicating that organizations must be vigilant and apply mitigations proactively.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences including unauthorized remote code execution, data breaches, defacement of websites, and potential lateral movement within internal networks. Organizations relying on the Edge CPT plugin for content management or custom post types in WordPress environments are particularly vulnerable. The compromise of web servers can lead to exposure of sensitive customer data, intellectual property, and disruption of business operations. Given the high usage of PHP and WordPress in Europe, especially in sectors like e-commerce, government, and media, the impact could be widespread. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged by threat actors for establishing persistent footholds or launching further attacks such as ransomware. The lack of authentication and user interaction requirements makes exploitation feasible remotely and at scale, increasing the risk profile for European entities.

Immediate mitigation steps include disabling or removing the Edge CPT plugin until a security patch is released. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-supplied data that influences file inclusion paths. Employ PHP configuration hardening by disabling allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives to prevent remote file inclusion. Use web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious requests targeting file inclusion vulnerabilities. Monitor server logs for unusual file inclusion attempts or unexpected HTTP requests. Conduct regular vulnerability scans and penetration tests focusing on PHP applications and plugins. Maintain an inventory of all WordPress plugins and ensure timely updates. If possible, isolate web servers in segmented network zones to limit potential lateral movement. Finally, prepare incident response plans to quickly address any exploitation attempts.