CVE-2026-24609 is a Remote File Inclusion vulnerability found in the Elated-Themes Laurent WordPress theme, affecting versions up to 3.1. The vulnerability stems from improper validation and control of filenames used in PHP include or require statements, which allows an attacker to manipulate the input to include remote files. This can enable an attacker to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability is classified as a PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) issue but is more accurately a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) due to the ability to include files from remote locations. Exploitation does not require authentication, and no user interaction is needed, making it highly exploitable if the vulnerable theme is publicly accessible. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. However, the risk remains high due to the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress themes in websites. Attackers could leverage this flaw to deploy web shells, steal sensitive data, pivot within networks, or disrupt services. The vulnerability was published on January 23, 2026, by Patchstack, but lacks a CVSS score, indicating it is newly disclosed and pending further assessment.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2026-24609 can be severe. Organizations running websites with the Laurent theme are at risk of remote code execution, which can lead to data breaches, defacement, or full server takeover. This compromises confidentiality by exposing sensitive data, integrity by allowing unauthorized code execution and modification, and availability by potentially enabling denial-of-service conditions. Given the popularity of WordPress in Europe, especially among SMEs and digital service providers, exploitation could disrupt business operations and damage reputations. Additionally, compromised websites can be used as launchpads for further attacks within corporate networks or to distribute malware to visitors. The lack of a patch increases the window of exposure, and the absence of known exploits does not reduce the risk, as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. Compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations may also be impacted if personal data is exposed due to exploitation.

1. Immediate monitoring of all WordPress sites using the Laurent theme to identify vulnerable versions (<= 3.1). 2. Apply patches or updates from Elated-Themes as soon as they become available; if no official patch exists, consider disabling or replacing the theme temporarily. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-controllable parameters that influence file inclusion paths. 4. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block Remote File Inclusion attempts. 5. Restrict PHP configuration settings such as disabling allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen to prevent remote file inclusion. 6. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability scans focusing on WordPress themes and plugins. 7. Use intrusion detection systems to monitor for unusual file access or code execution patterns. 8. Educate website administrators on the risks of using outdated or untrusted themes and plugins. 9. Maintain regular backups of website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery if compromised.