CVE-2025-69071 in TanTum Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/22/2026
Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program ('PHP Remote File Inclusion') vulnerability in AncoraThemes TanTum tantum allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects TanTum: from n/a through <= 1.1.13.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/28/2026
The CVE-2025-69071 vulnerability represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw within the AncoraThemes TanTum theme, specifically manifesting as an improper control of filename for include/require statements. This vulnerability classifies under CWE-98 as an improper control of a resource identifier, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input that is used in file inclusion operations. The flaw exists in the TanTum theme version range from an unspecified starting point through version 1.1.13, indicating a broad affected scope that likely encompasses numerous installations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the theme accepts user-provided parameters that are directly used in PHP include or require statements without adequate sanitization or validation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating input parameters to the theme's file inclusion mechanisms, potentially allowing them to include arbitrary local files or even remote files if the server configuration permits remote file inclusion. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to execute malicious code on the target server, escalate privileges, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can facilitate complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially access database credentials, user information, or other sensitive data stored on the server. The vulnerability's classification as a local file inclusion issue means that attackers can traverse the file system and access files that should normally be restricted, potentially leading to privilege escalation or data exfiltration. This weakness also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for PHP remote file inclusion, which targets web applications to achieve code execution through insecure file handling practices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-69071 should prioritize immediate patching of the TanTum theme to version 1.1.14 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Administrators should also implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied parameters from being passed directly to include/require statements. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes run with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined safe directories. Additional protective measures include disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configuration, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security audits of theme and plugin code to identify similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also monitor for exploitation attempts through log analysis and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of potential successful attacks.