Improper File Inclusion in Overworld WordPress Theme

Executive Summary

This vulnerability is an improper control of the filename used in include or require statements in a PHP program within the Edge-Themes Overworld software. It is a PHP Local File Inclusion issue, meaning that an attacker could manipulate the filename parameter to include unintended local files on the server.

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Detection Guidance

Detecting PHP Remote File Inclusion (RFI) or Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerabilities like CVE-2026-57800 in the Overworld theme requires checking for improper file inclusion patterns in PHP code. Since this vulnerability affects the Overworld theme (versions <= 1.5), you can perform the following steps:

• Scan your web application directories for the Overworld theme files. Look for files in the theme directory, typically located in /wp-content/themes/overworld/ (if using WordPress).
• Inspect PHP files in the Overworld theme for insecure include/require statements. Commands like grep can help identify vulnerable patterns. Example: grep -r "include(" /path/to/overworld/theme/ | grep -i "\$_"
• Check for dynamic file inclusion using user-controlled input (e.g., $_GET, $_POST, or $_REQUEST variables). Example: grep -r "include($_" /path/to/overworld/theme/
• Use a web vulnerability scanner (e.g., OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, or Nessus) to detect RFI/LFI vulnerabilities by sending crafted requests to the application.
• Manually test for LFI by attempting to access local files via URL parameters. Example: https://example.com/wp-content/themes/overworld/file.php?page=../../../../etc/passwd (Note: Only perform this in a controlled environment with permission.)

If you confirm the presence of the Overworld theme (version <= 1.5), assume the vulnerability exists until patched.

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Impact Analysis

The vulnerability has a high severity with a CVSS base score of 7.5, indicating it can have a significant impact. It can lead to confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, meaning an attacker could potentially access sensitive information, modify data, or disrupt the availability of the affected system.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability, identified as a PHP Remote File Inclusion (RFI) and Local File Inclusion (LFI), can significantly impact compliance with standards and regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.

• GDPR: The vulnerability allows unauthorized access to sensitive files or execution of arbitrary code, which could lead to exposure of personal data. Under GDPR, organizations must protect personal data from unauthorized access or disclosure. A breach resulting from this vulnerability could lead to non-compliance, triggering fines and mandatory breach notifications.
• HIPAA: For organizations handling protected health information (PHI), this vulnerability could result in unauthorized access to PHI. HIPAA requires safeguards to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of PHI. Exploitation of this vulnerability could violate these requirements, leading to penalties and corrective action plans.

Additionally, the CVSS score of 7.5 indicates a high severity, which may require immediate remediation to avoid regulatory scrutiny and potential legal consequences.

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Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate CVE-2026-57800, follow these immediate steps:

• Update the Overworld theme to the latest version if a patch is available. Since the vulnerability affects versions <= 1.5, check the vendor's website or repository for updates.
• If no patch is available, disable or remove the Overworld theme temporarily to eliminate the attack surface.
• Apply a web application firewall (WAF) rule to block requests containing suspicious patterns (e.g., directory traversal sequences like ../ or remote file inclusion attempts).
• Restrict file inclusion functions in PHP by disabling allow_url_include in php.ini. Example: allow_url_include = Off
• Validate and sanitize all user-controlled input used in file inclusion functions. Avoid dynamic file inclusion based on user input.
• Monitor web server logs for unusual activity, such as repeated requests targeting PHP files with suspicious parameters.

After applying these steps, verify the mitigation by testing the application for the vulnerability.

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