CVE-2025-60199

dedalx · dedalx InHype - Blog & Magazine WordPress Theme

A high-severity vulnerability has been identified in the InHype WordPress Theme, which could allow an attacker to read sensitive files on the web server.

Executive summary

A high-severity vulnerability has been identified in the InHype WordPress Theme, which could allow an attacker to read sensitive files on the web server. This flaw, known as Local File Inclusion, can be exploited remotely without authentication, potentially exposing confidential data such as database credentials, system files, and application source code. Successful exploitation could lead to a full server compromise, data breach, and significant operational disruption.

Vulnerability

This vulnerability is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) flaw. It exists because the theme's code improperly handles user-supplied input when including files using PHP's include() or require() functions. An unauthenticated attacker can manipulate a URL parameter to inject directory traversal sequences (e.g., ../../..) and force the application to include and display the contents of arbitrary files from the server's local file system. This could allow the attacker to access sensitive information, such as the wp-config.php file containing database credentials, or system files like /etc/passwd.

Business impact

This is a high-severity vulnerability with a CVSS score of 8.2. Exploitation could have a severe impact on the business, leading to a significant data breach through the exposure of sensitive files and credentials. An attacker could leverage this access to gain further control over the web server, deface the website, install malware, or use the compromised server to launch attacks against other systems. The potential consequences include reputational damage, loss of customer trust, regulatory penalties for data exposure, and significant costs associated with incident response and system recovery.

Remediation

Immediate Action: The primary remediation is to update the 'InHype - Blog & Magazine WordPress Theme' to the latest version provided by the vendor, which contains a patch for this vulnerability. If the theme is not essential or no longer in use, it should be deactivated and completely removed from the WordPress installation to eliminate the attack surface.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor web server access logs for suspicious requests containing directory traversal patterns (e.g., ../, %2e%2e/) or attempts to access common sensitive files (wp-config.php, /etc/passwd, .env) within URL parameters. Monitor for any unusual file modifications or outbound network connections from the web server, which could indicate a successful compromise.

Compensating Controls: If immediate patching is not feasible, implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules specifically designed to detect and block LFI and directory traversal attacks. Additionally, ensure PHP is hardened by disabling allow_url_include in the php.ini configuration and that the web server process runs with the principle of least privilege, restricting its ability to read files outside of the web root directory.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: false

Analyst recommendation

Given the high severity (CVSS 8.2) of this vulnerability and the potential for complete server compromise, immediate action is required. It is strongly recommended that all organizations using the 'InHype - Blog & Magazine WordPress Theme' apply the vendor-supplied patch or remove the theme without delay. Although this CVE is not currently on the CISA KEV catalog, its high potential for impact warrants urgent prioritization in your patch management cycle to prevent data exposure and system compromise.