CVE-2025-68066 is a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability classified under CWE-98, affecting the PenciDesign Soledad WordPress theme versions up to 8.7.0. The vulnerability arises from improper validation and control of filenames used in PHP include or require statements within the theme's codebase. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the filename parameter to include remote malicious PHP files, which the server then executes. The vulnerability requires no user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network by an attacker with low privileges, such as a subscriber or unauthenticated user, depending on the theme's configuration. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) indicates that while the attack complexity is high, the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is critical, potentially allowing full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or denial of service. No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be considered a significant risk. The issue stems from insufficient sanitization or validation of input used in dynamic PHP file inclusion, a common vector for RFI attacks. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in WordPress environments, where themes have extensive access to site files and database connections.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-68066 can be severe. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution on web servers hosting vulnerable Soledad themes, resulting in data breaches, website defacement, or complete site takeover. This can compromise customer data, intellectual property, and disrupt business operations. Organizations relying on WordPress for e-commerce, media, or corporate websites may face reputational damage and regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. The attack could also be used as a pivot point for lateral movement within internal networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of the Soledad theme in Europe, especially among SMEs and content publishers, the threat is significant. The high CVSS score reflects the criticality of the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently active, the public disclosure increases the risk of future exploitation attempts.

1. Monitor official PenciDesign channels and WordPress theme repositories for patches addressing CVE-2025-68066 and apply updates immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict PHP include paths using server configuration (e.g., open_basedir in PHP) to limit file inclusion to trusted directories. 3. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts and RFI attack patterns. 4. Review and harden WordPress user roles and permissions to minimize the ability of low-privilege users to influence theme parameters. 5. Conduct code audits on customizations or child themes derived from Soledad to ensure no unsafe dynamic includes exist. 6. Implement network segmentation to isolate web servers and limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 7. Enable detailed logging and monitoring of web server and application logs to detect anomalous inclusion attempts early. 8. Educate site administrators on the risks of installing untrusted plugins or themes and encourage regular security assessments.