CVE-2023-49738 is an information disclosure vulnerability identified in the WWBN AVideo platform, specifically within the image404Raw.php script. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-73, which involves external control of file name or path. An attacker can craft a malicious HTTP request that manipulates the file path parameter in this script, leading to arbitrary file read on the server. This means the attacker can access files outside the intended directory scope, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, credentials, or other private data stored on the server. The vulnerability affects the development master branch at commit 15fed957fb, indicating it may be present in development or pre-release versions rather than stable releases. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.5 (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N) indicates that the vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without any privileges or user interaction, with a high impact on confidentiality but no impact on integrity or availability. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting the vulnerability is newly disclosed. However, the ease of exploitation and potential data exposure make it a significant risk. Attackers exploiting this flaw could harvest sensitive information that may facilitate further attacks or data breaches.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-49738 can be substantial, particularly for entities relying on WWBN AVideo for video hosting, streaming, or media management. Unauthorized file reads can lead to leakage of sensitive information such as server configuration files, database credentials, or private user data, which can compromise confidentiality and privacy obligations under regulations like GDPR. This exposure can facilitate lateral movement within networks or enable further exploitation by revealing system internals. Media companies, educational institutions, and content providers using AVideo are at risk of reputational damage and regulatory penalties if sensitive data is disclosed. Since the vulnerability does not affect integrity or availability, direct service disruption is unlikely, but the confidentiality breach alone is critical. The lack of authentication requirements increases the risk of automated scanning and exploitation attempts, potentially leading to widespread data exposure if unmitigated.

Given the absence of an official patch, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the image404Raw.php endpoint using web application firewalls (WAFs) or access control lists to block suspicious or unauthorized requests. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any file path parameters to prevent directory traversal or arbitrary file access. Monitor web server logs for unusual HTTP requests targeting image404Raw.php or attempts to access sensitive files. If feasible, isolate the AVideo application in a segmented network zone with limited access to critical backend systems. Regularly update to the latest stable versions of AVideo once patches addressing this vulnerability are released. Conduct internal code reviews and penetration testing focused on file path handling to identify similar weaknesses. Educate development and operations teams about CWE-73 risks and secure coding practices to prevent recurrence.