CVE-2025-63036 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the DFDevelopment Ronneby Theme Core, a WordPress theme component, affecting versions up to 1.5.68. The vulnerability stems from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, which are functions that incorporate and execute code from other files. When user input is not properly validated or sanitized before being used in these functions, attackers can manipulate the filename parameter to include arbitrary files from the local server. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files, such as configuration files containing database credentials, or even remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or writable file locations. The vulnerability is classified as a PHP Remote File Inclusion type but specifically allows Local File Inclusion due to the nature of the flaw. No public exploits or patches are currently available, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The issue was reserved in late October 2025 and published in December 2025. The Ronneby Theme Core is widely used in WordPress sites, which are prevalent across many European organizations, especially in sectors relying on WordPress for content management. The lack of authentication requirement and the potential to escalate from information disclosure to full system compromise make this vulnerability particularly dangerous. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain persistent access, deface websites, or pivot to internal networks. The vulnerability highlights the need for secure coding practices around file inclusion and input validation in PHP applications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-63036 can be significant. Many businesses and institutions in Europe rely on WordPress for their web presence, and themes like Ronneby are popular for their design and functionality. Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, including customer information, internal documents, and credentials stored on the web server. This could result in data breaches subject to GDPR penalties. Furthermore, attackers could execute arbitrary code, leading to website defacement, malware distribution, or using the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the corporate network. This could disrupt business operations, damage reputation, and cause financial losses. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation without authentication increases the risk of automated scanning and mass exploitation campaigns targeting vulnerable WordPress sites across Europe. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government are particularly at risk due to the sensitivity of their data and the critical nature of their services.

1. Monitor DFDevelopment and WordPress theme repositories closely for official patches addressing CVE-2025-63036 and apply updates immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to manipulate include/require parameters, focusing on directory traversal patterns and unexpected file extensions. 3. Restrict PHP include paths using configuration directives (e.g., open_basedir) to limit file inclusion to trusted directories only. 4. Conduct code reviews and audits of customizations or child themes based on Ronneby to ensure no additional unsafe file inclusion practices exist. 5. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts in real time. 6. Harden server permissions to prevent unauthorized file creation or modification that could facilitate remote code execution. 7. Educate web administrators on the risks of LFI vulnerabilities and encourage regular security scanning of WordPress installations using specialized tools. 8. Consider isolating WordPress instances in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromise occurs.