CVE-2025-1093: Critical RCE Vulnerability in WordPress AIHub Theme

A critical vulnerability (CVE-2025-1093) has been identified in the AIHub WordPress theme, allowing unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files and potentially execute remote code. The flaw, rated 9.8 (CRITICAL) on the CVSS v3.1 scale, affects all versions up to and including 1.3.7. This vulnerability stems from insufficient file type validation in the theme’s `generate_image` function, which could lead to full server compromise.

**TL;DR: Key Facts**
– **CVE ID:** CVE-2025-1093
– **Severity:** 9.8 (CRITICAL)
– **Affected Versions:** AIHub Theme ≤ 1.3.7
– **Vulnerability Type:** Unauthenticated RCE via file upload
– **Mitigation:** Update or disable the theme; implement server-side file restrictions

Technical Analysis

The vulnerability resides in the `generate_image` function, which processes user-uploaded files without proper validation. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious files (e.g., PHP shells) to the server. The lack of authentication requirements lowers the attack barrier, making it accessible to any network-based attacker.

According to the GitHub Advisory¹, the flaw is classified under CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of Dangerous File Types). The Wordfence advisory² notes that automated exploitation is likely due to the high severity and low complexity of the attack vector.

Impact and Exploitability

Successful exploitation could result in complete server takeover, data theft, or further network penetration. The vulnerability’s high CVSS score reflects its network-based attack vector, lack of required privileges, and potential for full system compromise.

The EPSS score of 0.15% suggests low immediate exploitation likelihood, but the high impact warrants urgent attention. Public exploits may emerge soon, as observed with similar WordPress theme vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-3278³.

Mitigation and Remediation

1. **Immediate Actions:**
– Update to a patched version if available, or disable the AIHub theme entirely.
– Scan for suspicious files uploaded via the `generate_image` function.

2. **Long-term Protections:**
– Implement server-side file type validation (e.g., `.htaccess` rules blocking PHP execution in upload directories).
– Deploy security plugins like Wordfence to detect and block exploit attempts.

Relevance to Security Professionals

This vulnerability is particularly concerning for organizations using the AIHub theme, as it requires no authentication and could be weaponized in mass attacks. Red teams should test for this flaw in engagements, while blue teams should prioritize patching and monitoring for anomalous file uploads.

Conclusion

CVE-2025-1093 represents a severe threat to WordPress sites using the AIHub theme. Immediate action is recommended to prevent potential breaches. Continuous monitoring for exploit attempts and adherence to secure file upload practices are essential for long-term protection.