CVE-2025-49363
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows attackers to include local files on the server through improper filename control in PHP include/require statements. It affects WordPress sites using the Kings & Queens theme version 1.1.16 and earlier. Attackers can potentially read sensitive files or execute arbitrary code.
💻 Affected Systems
- AncoraThemes Kings & Queens WordPress Theme
⚠️ Manual Verification Required
This CVE does not have specific version information in our database, so automatic vulnerability detection cannot determine if your system is affected.
Why? The CVE database entry doesn't specify which versions are vulnerable (no version ranges provided by the vendor/NVD).
🔒 Custom verification scripts are available for registered users. Sign up free to download automated test scripts.
- Review the CVE details at NVD
- Check vendor security advisories for your specific version
- Test if the vulnerability is exploitable in your environment
- Consider updating to the latest version as a precaution
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full server compromise through arbitrary code execution leading to data theft, ransomware deployment, or complete system takeover.
Likely Case
Sensitive file disclosure (configuration files, database credentials, user data) and limited code execution within web server context.
If Mitigated
Limited impact due to proper file permissions, disabled dangerous PHP functions, and web application firewall rules blocking suspicious requests.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires sending crafted HTTP requests with file path parameters. Public proof-of-concept available through security advisories.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: >1.1.16
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
1. Log into WordPress admin panel. 2. Navigate to Appearance > Themes. 3. Check if Kings & Queens theme shows update available. 4. Update to latest version. 5. If no update available, replace with alternative theme.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable vulnerable theme
allTemporarily switch to default WordPress theme until patch is applied
wp theme activate twentytwentyfour
Web Application Firewall rule
linuxBlock requests containing local file inclusion patterns
ModSecurity rule: SecRule ARGS "\.\./" "id:1001,phase:2,deny,status:403,msg:'Local File Inclusion Attempt'
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict file permissions (chmod 644 for PHP files, 755 for directories)
- Deploy web application firewall with LFI detection rules
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check WordPress theme version in wp-content/themes/kings-queens/style.css or via WordPress admin panelCheck Version:
wp theme list --field=name,status,version | grep kings-queensVerify Fix Applied:
Verify theme version is >1.1.16 and test with known exploit payloads (monitor logs for blocked attempts)📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- HTTP requests with ../ patterns in parameters
- PHP warnings about failed file inclusions
- Access to sensitive files like /etc/passwd in web logs
Network Indicators:
- Unusual file paths in URL parameters
- Requests to theme files with parameter manipulation
SIEM Query:
source="web_access.log" AND (uri="*../*" OR uri="*/etc/passwd*" OR uri="*/wp-config.php*")