CVE-2025-6326 in Inset Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/18/2025
Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program ('PHP Remote File Inclusion') vulnerability in AncoraThemes Inset inset allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Inset: from n/a through <= 1.18.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2025
The CVE-2025-6326 vulnerability represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw within the AncoraThemes Inset plugin, specifically impacting versions through 1.18.0. This vulnerability stems from improper control of filename parameters in include/require statements, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The issue manifests when user-supplied input is directly incorporated into PHP include or require functions without adequate sanitization or validation, enabling attackers to manipulate the inclusion process and potentially load malicious files from remote servers or local directories.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of file inclusion operations. The flaw allows for Local File Inclusion attacks where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter to include local files on the server, potentially leading to information disclosure, arbitrary code execution, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists because the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before using it in file inclusion contexts, creating a dangerous attack surface that can be exploited through various input vectors including URL parameters, form submissions, or API endpoints that accept filename inputs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems, potentially leading to complete compromise of the affected web server. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute malicious files, access sensitive data, escalate privileges, or establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The attack surface extends beyond simple code execution to include potential privilege escalation opportunities, as the inclusion of local files may allow access to system resources or configuration files that contain sensitive credentials or system information. Additionally, the vulnerability can be exploited through automated scanning tools, making it particularly dangerous in environments where plugins are widely deployed without proper security monitoring.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-6326 should focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the vulnerability, as well as implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should enforce strict parameter validation for all user inputs that may be used in file inclusion operations, implement whitelisting approaches for acceptable file names, and utilize PHP configuration settings such as allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen set to disabled values. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly in preventing server-side request forgery and insecure direct object references that can lead to similar exploitation vectors.