CVE-2025-26889 Overview
CVE-2025-26889 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability affecting the hockeydata LOS WordPress plugin through version 1.2.4. The flaw stems from improper control of filename parameters used in PHP include or require statements, classified under [CWE-98]. Attackers can manipulate file path inputs to include arbitrary local files during PHP execution. Successful exploitation can lead to source code disclosure, sensitive configuration leakage, and potentially remote code execution when combined with file upload primitives. The vulnerability requires user interaction and high attack complexity but yields high impact across confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Critical Impact
Remote attackers can include arbitrary local files via PHP include/require statements, exposing sensitive data and enabling code execution on affected WordPress installations.
Affected Products
- hockeydata LOS WordPress plugin versions up to and including 1.2.4
- WordPress installations with the hockeydata-los plugin enabled
- PHP-based deployments serving the vulnerable plugin code
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-04-15 - CVE-2025-26889 published to NVD
- 2026-04-23 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-26889
Vulnerability Analysis
The hockeydata LOS plugin processes user-supplied input as part of a filename passed to a PHP include or require statement. The plugin fails to sanitize or restrict the path component, allowing path traversal sequences and absolute file references. Attackers can supply crafted parameter values that resolve to files outside the intended directory.
When PHP encounters the inclusion directive, it parses and executes the referenced file as PHP code. This behavior turns arbitrary file disclosure into potential code execution when an attacker can place executable content on the filesystem. Common avenues include log poisoning, session file injection, and uploaded media files.
The issue is categorized as PHP Remote File Inclusion under [CWE-98], though the disclosed impact is limited to Local File Inclusion. Exploitation requires user interaction, which typically means tricking an authenticated user into visiting a crafted URL.
Root Cause
The root cause is missing input validation on a request parameter used to construct the path argument for a PHP file inclusion function. The plugin trusts client-supplied data when assembling the target filename, omitting allowlist checks, path canonicalization, and directory restrictions.
Attack Vector
An attacker crafts a URL targeting a vulnerable endpoint in the hockeydata LOS plugin and embeds a relative or absolute path in the susceptible parameter. The victim is induced to follow the link, at which point the WordPress request handler invokes the plugin and PHP executes the included file. Network access to the WordPress site and minimal user interaction are sufficient to trigger the vulnerability.
No verified proof-of-concept code is publicly available. Refer to the Patchstack WordPress Plugin Vulnerability advisory for technical details.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-26889
Indicators of Compromise
- Web server access logs containing path traversal sequences such as ../, ..%2f, or null-byte terminators in parameters handled by the hockeydata LOS plugin
- Requests referencing sensitive files including wp-config.php, /etc/passwd, or PHP session paths
- Unexpected PHP errors or warnings referencing include() or require() failures in WordPress debug logs
Detection Strategies
- Inspect HTTP request parameters targeting hockeydata-los endpoints for suspicious filename patterns and directory traversal payloads
- Correlate web access logs with PHP error logs to identify failed or successful inclusion attempts
- Deploy web application firewall rules that flag LFI signatures against WordPress plugin URLs
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable WordPress audit logging and forward events to a centralized SIEM for review
- Monitor filesystem access patterns from the PHP process for reads on configuration and credential files
- Track outbound connections from the web server that may indicate post-exploitation activity
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-26889
Immediate Actions Required
- Disable or remove the hockeydata LOS plugin until a patched version is installed
- Restrict access to the WordPress admin area and plugin endpoints via IP allowlisting where feasible
- Audit web server and PHP logs for evidence of prior exploitation attempts targeting the plugin
Patch Information
No patched version is identified in the published advisory. Versions up to and including 1.2.4 are affected. Monitor the Patchstack WordPress Plugin Vulnerability entry and the vendor's distribution channels for an updated release.
Workarounds
- Configure PHP open_basedir to limit filesystem paths accessible to the WordPress process
- Set allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen to Off in php.ini to reduce inclusion risks
- Deploy a web application firewall with rules blocking path traversal and PHP wrapper schemes on plugin URLs
# Configuration example
# /etc/php/php.ini hardening
allow_url_include = Off
allow_url_fopen = Off
open_basedir = "/var/www/html:/tmp"
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
