CVE-2025-67935 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the Mikado-Themes Optimize WordPress theme, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.4. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename used in PHP include or require statements, which allows an attacker to manipulate the input parameter to include arbitrary files from the local filesystem. This can lead to disclosure of sensitive information such as configuration files, source code, or credentials stored on the server. In some cases, LFI can be leveraged to achieve remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or by including files that contain attacker-controlled code. The vulnerability does not require authentication, making it accessible to unauthenticated remote attackers. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress themes make it a significant risk. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and awaiting further analysis. The vulnerability was reserved in December 2025 and published in January 2026, indicating recent discovery. Mikado-Themes Optimize is a popular theme, and its improper input validation in file inclusion functions is a common security flaw in PHP applications. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of affected systems and could also impact availability if exploited to execute malicious code or disrupt services.

For European organizations using the Mikado-Themes Optimize WordPress theme, this vulnerability poses a significant risk of sensitive data exposure and potential system compromise. Attackers can exploit the LFI flaw to read critical files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials, or other sensitive server files, leading to further attacks like privilege escalation or remote code execution. This can result in data breaches, defacement of websites, or use of compromised servers in botnets or other malicious activities. Given the popularity of WordPress and Mikado-Themes in Europe, especially in countries with large digital economies such as Germany, France, and the UK, the impact could be widespread. Organizations in sectors like e-commerce, government, and media that rely on WordPress themes for their web presence are particularly at risk. The vulnerability could also undermine trust in affected organizations and lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the ease of exploitation and potential damage make timely action critical.

1. Upgrade the Mikado-Themes Optimize theme to version 2.4 or later as soon as the patch is released by the vendor. 2. Until an official patch is available, implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file inclusion to prevent manipulation. 3. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts and directory traversal patterns. 4. Restrict PHP file inclusion functions by disabling allow_url_include and setting open_basedir restrictions to limit accessible directories. 5. Conduct regular security audits and code reviews of custom themes and plugins to identify similar vulnerabilities. 6. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests targeting include or require parameters. 7. Backup website data regularly and maintain incident response plans to quickly recover from potential exploitation. 8. Educate developers and administrators on secure coding practices related to file handling in PHP. 9. Consider isolating WordPress instances in containerized or sandboxed environments to limit impact if compromised.