CVE-2025-1075 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-532, which involves the insertion of sensitive information into log files. Specifically, in Checkmk versions prior to 2.3.0p27, 2.2.0p40, and 2.1.0p51 (now end-of-life), LDAP credentials used by the Checkmk monitoring system are written into the Apache error log files. These logs are typically accessible to system administrators and potentially other users with elevated privileges. The exposure of LDAP credentials in logs can lead to unauthorized access if these logs are improperly secured or accessed by malicious insiders or attackers who have gained limited access. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates a medium severity score of 5.6, with the attack vector being local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L), partial authentication (PR:L), and user interaction (UI:P). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality highly (VC:H) but does not affect integrity or availability. The scope is high (SC:H) indicating that the vulnerability affects components beyond the vulnerable component itself. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains due to the sensitive nature of the leaked credentials. The vulnerability was published on February 19, 2025, and affects multiple legacy and current versions of Checkmk, a widely used IT infrastructure monitoring tool. Since LDAP credentials are critical for authentication and directory services, their exposure can facilitate lateral movement or privilege escalation within enterprise environments.

For European organizations, the exposure of LDAP credentials in logs can lead to significant confidentiality breaches. Attackers or malicious insiders with access to these logs could harvest credentials to gain unauthorized access to directory services, potentially compromising user accounts and sensitive data. This risk is heightened in environments where Checkmk is deployed to monitor critical infrastructure, government networks, or large enterprises with complex IT environments. The vulnerability does not directly impact system availability or integrity but can be a stepping stone for further attacks such as privilege escalation or data exfiltration. Organizations relying on LDAP for authentication and authorization are particularly vulnerable. Given the local attack vector and requirement for some privileges and user interaction, the threat is more relevant to insiders or attackers who have already gained limited access. However, the widespread use of Checkmk in Europe, especially in Germany and neighboring countries where the vendor is based, increases the likelihood of exposure. Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to compliance issues under GDPR due to improper handling of sensitive authentication data.

European organizations should immediately upgrade Checkmk to versions 2.3.0p27, 2.2.0p40, or 2.1.0p51 or later where the vulnerability is patched. If immediate upgrading is not feasible, restrict access to Apache error log files to only trusted administrators using strict file permissions and access controls. Implement log monitoring and auditing to detect any unauthorized access or suspicious activity involving log files. Consider configuring Checkmk and Apache to minimize logging of sensitive information, possibly by adjusting log verbosity or sanitizing log entries. Employ network segmentation and least privilege principles to limit who can access systems running Checkmk and their logs. Additionally, rotate LDAP credentials that may have been exposed and review authentication logs for signs of misuse. Educate administrators about the risk of sensitive data in logs and enforce secure handling of log files. Finally, integrate this vulnerability into vulnerability management and incident response processes to ensure timely detection and remediation.