CVE-2025-23937 Overview
CVE-2025-23937 is a PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability in the Alex Furr LinkedIn Lite WordPress plugin. The flaw stems from improper control of filenames used in include or require statements [CWE-98]. Attackers can manipulate file path parameters to load arbitrary local PHP files within the WordPress server context. The vulnerability affects all versions of LinkedIn Lite from initial release through version 1.0. Successful exploitation can lead to disclosure of sensitive configuration files, execution of arbitrary PHP code via uploaded or log files, and full compromise of the WordPress installation.
Critical Impact
Remote attackers can include arbitrary local files through the vulnerable plugin, potentially leading to code execution and complete site compromise.
Affected Products
- Alex Furr LinkedIn Lite WordPress Plugin versions through 1.0
- WordPress installations with the linkedin-lite plugin enabled
- Hosting environments serving the affected plugin to public users
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-03-26 - CVE-2025-23937 published to NVD
- 2026-04-23 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-23937
Vulnerability Analysis
The LinkedIn Lite plugin fails to properly sanitize user-controlled input used in PHP file inclusion statements. The vulnerability is classified under [CWE-98] (Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program). Although the title references PHP Remote File Inclusion, the advisory confirms exploitation as Local File Inclusion (LFI). An unauthenticated attacker can submit a crafted request that causes the plugin to include arbitrary PHP files from the local filesystem. This grants access to sensitive files such as wp-config.php and can enable code execution when combined with file upload primitives.
Root Cause
The root cause is the use of untrusted input as a filename argument to PHP include or require functions without validation against an allowlist. Path traversal sequences such as ../ and absolute paths are not stripped or rejected. The plugin lacks proper input filtering, type checking, and canonicalization of supplied file path values.
Attack Vector
The vulnerability is exploitable over the network without authentication or user interaction. An attacker sends an HTTP request to a vulnerable plugin endpoint with a manipulated parameter referencing a target file path. The PHP interpreter loads and executes the referenced file. Exploitation complexity is rated High, indicating specific conditions must be met for reliable exploitation. Refer to the Patchstack WordPress Vulnerability advisory for technical details.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-23937
Indicators of Compromise
- HTTP requests to LinkedIn Lite plugin endpoints containing path traversal sequences such as ../ or ..%2f
- Access log entries referencing absolute filesystem paths like /etc/passwd or wp-config.php in query parameters
- Unexpected PHP errors in web server logs referencing missing or unusual include targets
- Outbound network connections initiated from the WordPress PHP process following plugin requests
Detection Strategies
- Inspect web server access logs for request parameters containing file path patterns directed at /wp-content/plugins/linkedin-lite/ URIs
- Deploy web application firewall (WAF) rules to flag LFI payload signatures targeting WordPress plugin endpoints
- Monitor PHP open_basedir violations and file access audit events for unexpected reads of system files
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable verbose logging on the WordPress installation and forward logs to a centralized SIEM for correlation
- Alert on any successful HTTP 200 responses to LinkedIn Lite plugin paths containing encoded traversal characters
- Track file integrity changes within the WordPress plugin and uploads directories
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-23937
Immediate Actions Required
- Deactivate and remove the LinkedIn Lite plugin from all WordPress installations until a patched release is available
- Audit web server logs for prior exploitation attempts against the plugin endpoints
- Rotate WordPress secrets, database credentials, and API keys if exploitation is suspected
Patch Information
No vendor patch is currently referenced in the advisory. The vulnerability affects LinkedIn Lite versions through 1.0 with no fixed version listed. Review the Patchstack advisory for updates on remediation availability.
Workarounds
- Remove the linkedin-lite plugin directory from wp-content/plugins/ to eliminate the attack surface
- Configure PHP open_basedir restrictions to limit file inclusion to the WordPress document root
- Deploy WAF rules blocking path traversal and PHP wrapper sequences in request parameters targeting the plugin
- Restrict access to WordPress administration and plugin endpoints using IP allowlists where feasible
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
