CVE-2025-10020 is an authenticated command injection vulnerability identified in Zohocorp's ManageEngine ADManager Plus, specifically affecting versions before 8024. The vulnerability resides in the Custom Script component, which allows users to execute scripts for automation and management tasks within Active Directory environments. Improper neutralization of special elements (CWE-77) in this component enables an authenticated attacker with low privileges to inject and execute arbitrary OS commands on the underlying server. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require authentication, which lowers the barrier for exploitation within compromised or insider accounts. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.5, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector and high complexity. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of directory services. No public exploits or patches are currently available, but the vulnerability has been officially published and reserved since September 2025. Organizations using ManageEngine ADManager Plus should consider this a critical risk due to the product's role in managing critical identity infrastructure.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-10020 is substantial given the widespread use of ManageEngine ADManager Plus in enterprise environments for Active Directory management. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on directory management servers, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive identity and access management data, disruption of authentication services, and lateral movement within corporate networks. This could result in data breaches, operational downtime, and compromise of critical infrastructure. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and telecommunications, which heavily rely on Active Directory for identity management, are particularly vulnerable. The high severity and scope of impact necessitate immediate attention to prevent exploitation that could affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of enterprise IT systems across Europe.

1. Immediately restrict access to the Custom Script component in ManageEngine ADManager Plus to only trusted and essential personnel. 2. Monitor logs and audit trails for unusual or unauthorized command executions within the application. 3. Implement strict role-based access control (RBAC) to limit privileges of users who can access scripting features. 4. Employ network segmentation and firewall rules to isolate the management server from less trusted network segments. 5. Once available, apply vendor-supplied patches or updates addressing this vulnerability without delay. 6. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on identity management infrastructure. 7. Educate administrators on the risks of command injection and the importance of secure scripting practices within the product. 8. Consider deploying application-layer intrusion detection systems to detect anomalous command injection attempts.