CVE-2025-67525 is a critical vulnerability classified as an improper control of filename for include/require statements in the PHP-based WordPress plugin Opal_WP ekommart. This flaw allows remote attackers to perform Remote File Inclusion (RFI) attacks by manipulating the filename parameter used in PHP include or require functions. Because the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize user input controlling the file path, attackers can supply a URL or path to a malicious PHP file hosted remotely or locally, which the server then includes and executes. This leads to remote code execution (RCE), enabling attackers to run arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server user. The vulnerability affects all versions of ekommart prior to 4.3.1. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the vulnerability’s network attack vector, no required privileges or user interaction, and its critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities historically leads to rapid exploitation once public disclosure occurs. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in e-commerce contexts where sensitive customer and payment data is processed. The absence of patch links suggests that users must seek updates directly from the vendor or trusted repositories. Given the plugin’s usage in WordPress e-commerce sites, the attack surface is significant, especially for organizations relying on this plugin for online sales and customer management.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-67525 can be severe. Exploitation can lead to full compromise of web servers hosting the ekommart plugin, resulting in data breaches involving customer personal and payment information, loss of business continuity due to site defacement or downtime, and potential regulatory penalties under GDPR for inadequate protection of personal data. The integrity of e-commerce transactions can be undermined, damaging customer trust and brand reputation. Additionally, attackers could use compromised servers as pivot points for further attacks within corporate networks. Given the critical CVSS score and the plugin’s role in online commerce, organizations face risks of financial loss, legal consequences, and operational disruption. The threat is exacerbated by the lack of required authentication and user interaction, enabling remote attackers to exploit the vulnerability at scale.

1. Immediate upgrade to ekommart version 4.3.1 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. If patching is not immediately possible, implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file inclusion paths to prevent malicious input. 3. Configure web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious requests attempting remote file inclusion, such as those containing URL schemes or unexpected file extensions in include parameters. 4. Restrict PHP include paths using open_basedir directives to limit accessible directories and prevent inclusion of remote files. 5. Disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen in PHP configuration to prevent inclusion of remote files. 6. Conduct thorough security audits of WordPress plugins and monitor for unusual web server activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 7. Maintain regular backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises. 8. Educate development and IT teams about secure coding practices to avoid similar vulnerabilities in custom code.