CVE-2025-68536 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the thembay Zota product up to version 1.3.14. This vulnerability is a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) flaw, which occurs when user input is not properly sanitized or validated before being used in PHP include or require statements. Attackers can exploit this by manipulating the filename parameter to include malicious remote files, leading to arbitrary code execution on the server. This can result in full system compromise, data theft, or defacement. The vulnerability is rooted in insecure coding practices where the filename input is not restricted to local files or validated against a whitelist. Although no CVSS score has been assigned, the vulnerability is critical in nature due to the potential for remote code execution without authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability affects the thembay Zota PHP theme or framework, commonly used in WordPress or other PHP-based CMS environments. No known public exploits or patches have been reported as of the publication date, but the vulnerability has been officially published and reserved in the CVE database. Organizations using affected versions should be aware of the risk and monitor for updates or patches from the vendor.

The impact of CVE-2025-68536 is significant for organizations using the thembay Zota PHP theme or framework. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to full server compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, defacement of websites, deployment of malware or ransomware, and disruption of services. The vulnerability compromises confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems. Given the nature of PHP web applications, exploited servers can be used as pivot points for lateral movement within internal networks. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements makes exploitation easier and increases the risk. Organizations relying on thembay Zota for their web presence or business-critical applications face increased risk of data breaches and operational disruption. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability remains a high priority for remediation to prevent future attacks.

To mitigate CVE-2025-68536, organizations should immediately audit their use of the thembay Zota theme or framework and identify affected versions (<= 1.3.14). Until an official patch is released, apply the following specific mitigations: 1) Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters used in include/require statements to restrict inputs to known safe local files only. 2) Disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives in the PHP configuration to prevent remote file inclusion. 3) Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules targeting suspicious include/require parameter usage to block exploitation attempts. 4) Conduct code reviews to identify and refactor insecure dynamic file inclusion patterns. 5) Monitor web server logs for unusual requests attempting to exploit file inclusion. 6) Isolate and harden web servers hosting thembay Zota to limit impact in case of compromise. 7) Stay updated with vendor advisories and apply official patches immediately upon release. These targeted steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on PHP configuration, code hygiene, and proactive monitoring specific to RFI vulnerabilities.