CVE-2024-42749 is a Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Alto CMS version 1.1.13. XSS vulnerabilities occur when an application does not properly sanitize user-supplied input, allowing an attacker to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers. In this case, a local attacker can craft a malicious script that, when processed by the vulnerable CMS, executes arbitrary code. This can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of legitimate users. The vulnerability is categorized as local, implying that the attacker must have some level of access to the system or authenticated user privileges to exploit it. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are currently known, but the risk remains significant due to the nature of XSS attacks. Alto CMS is a content management system used for managing websites, and version 1.1.13 is specifically affected. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing the urgency for organizations to implement interim mitigations. The vulnerability was reserved in August 2024 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. Given the typical impact of XSS vulnerabilities and the potential for arbitrary code execution, this issue demands prompt attention from administrators and security teams.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-42749 can be significant, especially for those relying on Alto CMS for web content management. Successful exploitation can compromise the confidentiality of user data, including session tokens and personal information, leading to identity theft or unauthorized access. Integrity of the web application can be undermined by injecting malicious content or scripts, potentially damaging the organization's reputation and trustworthiness. Availability impact is generally limited in XSS cases but could escalate if the injected scripts facilitate further attacks such as malware distribution or denial-of-service conditions. Organizations in sectors like government, finance, healthcare, and media, which often use CMS platforms extensively, may face higher risks. Additionally, compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations could be jeopardized if personal data is exposed through this vulnerability, leading to legal and financial consequences. The lack of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but the absence of patches means organizations must rely on mitigations to reduce exposure.

To mitigate CVE-2024-42749 effectively, European organizations should implement multiple layers of defense. First, apply strict input validation on all user-supplied data to ensure that scripts or HTML tags are not accepted or are properly sanitized. Employ robust output encoding techniques to neutralize any potentially malicious content before rendering it in the browser. Use Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts and reduce the impact of any injected code. Limit user privileges to the minimum necessary to reduce the risk posed by local attackers. Monitor web application logs and user activity for unusual patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. If possible, isolate Alto CMS instances in segmented network zones to contain potential breaches. Stay informed about vendor updates and apply patches as soon as they become available. Additionally, conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on XSS vulnerabilities. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in future releases.