CVE-2025-68530 is a security vulnerability classified as a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) issue found in the pavothemes Bookory WordPress theme, specifically affecting versions up to and including 2.2.7. The vulnerability stems from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This lack of validation allows an attacker to manipulate the input to include arbitrary files, either local or remote, which the PHP interpreter then executes. The consequence of this vulnerability is severe: it can lead to arbitrary code execution on the server, enabling attackers to run malicious scripts, escalate privileges, steal sensitive data, or deface websites. Although the description mentions PHP Local File Inclusion, the nature of the vulnerability implies potential for Remote File Inclusion, which is more critical. The vulnerability was reserved on December 19, 2025, and published on December 24, 2025, but no CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. The affected product, Bookory, is a WordPress theme developed by pavothemes, commonly used for e-commerce or content-rich websites. The vulnerability arises because the theme fails to properly sanitize or restrict the input used in include/require statements, a common PHP coding flaw. This allows attackers to supply a crafted filename parameter that points to malicious code hosted remotely or to sensitive local files, leading to code execution or information disclosure. The absence of patches or mitigation links indicates that users must be vigilant and apply any forthcoming updates promptly. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of themes like Bookory, this vulnerability poses a significant threat to websites relying on this theme.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-68530 can be substantial. Many businesses, especially SMEs and e-commerce platforms, rely on WordPress themes like Bookory for their online presence. Successful exploitation could lead to full site compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, steal customer data, inject malware, or disrupt services. This can result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties under GDPR due to data breaches, and financial losses. Public-facing websites are particularly vulnerable, as attackers can exploit the vulnerability remotely without authentication. The ability to include remote files means attackers can maintain persistent access or pivot to internal networks. Additionally, compromised websites can be used as launchpads for further attacks, including phishing or distributing ransomware. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the potential impact once exploitation tools emerge. Organizations in sectors such as retail, finance, and media, which heavily depend on WordPress, are at higher risk. The vulnerability also poses risks to hosting providers and managed service providers supporting affected clients.

1. Immediate Actions: Monitor pavothemes official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-68530 and apply them promptly once available. 2. Input Validation: Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-supplied parameters that influence file inclusion, ensuring only allowed filenames or paths are accepted. 3. PHP Configuration: Disable allow_url_include in php.ini to prevent remote file inclusion, and set allow_url_fopen to off if not required. 4. Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy or update WAF rules to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities, focusing on suspicious include/require parameters. 5. Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure the web server and PHP processes run with minimal privileges to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 6. Code Review: Conduct thorough security audits of custom themes and plugins to identify and remediate similar insecure coding patterns. 7. Backup and Recovery: Maintain regular, tested backups of websites and databases to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 8. Monitoring and Logging: Enable detailed logging of web server and PHP errors to detect anomalous activities indicative of exploitation attempts. 9. User Awareness: Educate site administrators about the risks of installing untrusted themes or plugins and the importance of timely updates. 10. Segmentation: Isolate critical systems and sensitive data from web-facing servers to reduce lateral movement opportunities.