CVE-2025-4524:Unauthenticated Local File Inclusion in the Madara – Responsive and modern WordPress theme for manga sites (WPStylish) up to version 2.2.2 via the template parameter, enabling arbitrary PHP code execution.

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The Madara WordPress theme is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion through the template parameter in all versions up to and including 2.2.2. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from server files, potentially bypassing access controls, exfiltrating sensitive data, or achieving code execution when images or other so‑called safe file types can be uploaded and included.

Overview

CVE-2025-4524 describes a CWE-22 (Path Traversal) vulnerability in the Madara WordPress theme (WPStylish). Affected products are the Madara theme for WordPress up to and including version 2.2.2. The issue enables unauthenticated remote attackers to abuse the template parameter to include local files, leading to potential full system compromise (CVSS v3.1 base score 9.8, CRITICAL). Disclosed on 2025-05-20. References include Wordfence Threat Intel and the Mangabooth product page for Madara.

Remediation

Upgrade to a patched release of the Madara theme (version 2.2.3 or later) or apply an official fix from the vendor. If a patch is not yet available, mitigate by removing or restricting the use of the template parameter, validating and sanitizing inputs, and preventing arbitrary file inclusion. Additional defenses include disabling unsafe file uploads, implementing input validation and least privilege server configurations, and using a web application firewall to detect or block LFI attempts. Monitor for unusual file access patterns and apply updates when released.

References

  • Wordfence Threat Intel vulnerability page: https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/id/a3ee01da-218a-421d-8f9c-1dc6c056ef74?source=cve
  • Mangabooth product page for Madara WP Manga Theme: https://mangabooth.com/product/wp-manga-theme-madara/

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction: Low
    Construction
  6. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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