CVE-2025-64216 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in the ThemeSphere SmartMag WordPress theme, specifically versions up to and including 10.3.0. This vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) by manipulating the filename parameter used in include or require statements within the PHP code. LFI vulnerabilities occur when user input is not properly sanitized before being used to include files, enabling attackers to include arbitrary files from the local filesystem. This can lead to information disclosure, code execution, or denial of service. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting a high severity due to the potential for full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring low privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N). The attack complexity is high (AC:H), indicating some conditions must be met for successful exploitation. The vulnerability does not currently have known exploits in the wild, but its presence in a popular WordPress theme used by media and publishing websites makes it a critical concern. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate mitigation efforts. The vulnerability could allow attackers to read sensitive configuration files, execute arbitrary PHP code, or disrupt website functionality, potentially leading to full site compromise or lateral movement within affected networks.

For European organizations, especially those operating media, publishing, or content-heavy websites using the SmartMag theme, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including user credentials, internal configuration files, or proprietary content. Attackers could execute arbitrary code on the web server, leading to website defacement, data manipulation, or pivoting to internal systems. This could disrupt business operations, damage brand reputation, and result in regulatory non-compliance under GDPR due to data breaches. The high CVSS score indicates a broad impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Given the widespread use of WordPress in Europe and the popularity of SmartMag among news and magazine sites, the threat could affect a substantial number of organizations. Additionally, the lack of user interaction required for exploitation increases the likelihood of automated attacks. The potential for lateral movement within networks also raises concerns for organizations with interconnected IT environments.

Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting the ability of the theme to include arbitrary files. Administrators should implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters used in include or require statements, ensuring only intended files can be loaded. Employing a web application firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block LFI attack patterns can provide a protective layer until an official patch is released. Organizations should monitor web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to manipulate file inclusion parameters. If possible, disable or limit PHP functions such as include, require, and file_get_contents for untrusted inputs. Isolating the web server environment using containerization or sandboxing can reduce the impact of successful exploitation. Once ThemeSphere releases a patch, immediate updating of the SmartMag theme is critical. Regular backups and incident response plans should be reviewed and tested to prepare for potential exploitation. Additionally, organizations should audit their WordPress installations for outdated themes and plugins to reduce attack surface.