CVE-2025-67525 is a vulnerability classified as Remote File Inclusion (RFI) in the Opal_WP ekommart WordPress plugin, affecting all versions prior to 4.3.1. The root cause is improper validation and control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the filename input to include arbitrary files, potentially from remote servers or local file systems. Successful exploitation can lead to execution of malicious PHP code on the server, enabling full compromise of the affected web application. This can result in unauthorized access, data theft, website defacement, or pivoting to internal networks. The vulnerability does not require authentication, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities makes them attractive targets for attackers. The plugin ekommart is used in WordPress-based e-commerce sites, which often handle sensitive customer and payment data, amplifying the potential impact. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates a severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, is easy to exploit remotely without user interaction, and can affect a broad scope of websites running vulnerable versions.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences including unauthorized access to sensitive customer data, theft of payment information, and disruption of e-commerce services. Compromised websites may be defaced or used as a platform for distributing malware or launching further attacks within corporate networks. This can damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), and result in financial losses due to downtime and remediation costs. Small and medium enterprises relying on ekommart for online sales are particularly at risk, as they may lack robust security monitoring. The vulnerability's remote exploitability without authentication makes it a critical threat vector for attackers targeting European e-commerce infrastructure. Additionally, attackers could leverage compromised sites to conduct phishing campaigns or spread ransomware, amplifying the impact across sectors.

1. Immediately update the ekommart plugin to version 4.3.1 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Conduct a thorough code review of any customizations or third-party plugins to ensure no insecure file inclusion practices remain. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization for any parameters used in include/require statements. 4. Deploy Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules specifically designed to detect and block RFI attack patterns targeting PHP applications. 5. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to include remote or unusual files. 6. Restrict PHP configuration settings such as disabling allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen to prevent remote file inclusion. 7. Regularly audit and update all WordPress plugins and themes to minimize exposure to known vulnerabilities. 8. Educate development and security teams about secure coding practices related to file inclusion.