CVE-2025-47440 in WPAdverts Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/07/2025
Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program ('PHP Remote File Inclusion') vulnerability in Greg Winiarski WPAdverts allows PHP Local File Inclusion. This issue affects WPAdverts: from n/a through 2.2.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2025
The CVE-2025-47440 vulnerability represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw that specifically targets the WPAdverts plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability stems from improper validation of filename parameters in include/require statements, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The issue exists within the plugin's handling of user-supplied input that is directly used in PHP include directives, fundamentally compromising the application's security boundaries. The vulnerability affects WPAdverts versions ranging from an unspecified starting point through version 2.2.2, indicating a prolonged exposure window where administrators may have remained unaware of the risk.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the inherent trust placed in local file operations within PHP applications. When the plugin processes user input through include or require statements without proper sanitization or validation, it allows attackers to inject malicious file paths that can reference local files or remote resources. This flaw directly maps to CWE-98, which describes improper control of code execution through dynamic calls, and represents a classic example of local file inclusion vulnerabilities that have been consistently exploited in web application attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets a publicly accessible web application component that can be exploited from external networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to potentially enable full system compromise. An attacker could leverage this flaw to include malicious PHP files hosted on remote servers, allowing for arbitrary command execution, data exfiltration, or even backdoor installation. The vulnerability's scope is particularly concerning given that WPAdverts is a widely used plugin for managing classified advertisements on WordPress sites, making numerous vulnerable systems potential targets. Successful exploitation could result in complete compromise of affected WordPress installations, allowing attackers to manipulate content, steal user credentials, or use compromised systems as launching points for further attacks within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-47440 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the vulnerability, as this represents the most effective defense mechanism. Administrators should also implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before they are used in include/require operations. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper file access controls and restricting PHP's ability to include remote files through configuration settings can provide defense-in-depth layers. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other plugin components, while maintaining updated security monitoring systems to detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution through include statements.