CVE-2025-12741 is an improper input validation vulnerability (CWE-20) in Google Cloud Looker, specifically triggered when a user with Developer role creates a database connection using the Denodo driver and manipulates LookML to execute arbitrary malicious commands. LookML is Looker's modeling language that defines data relationships and queries. The vulnerability allows command execution due to insufficient sanitization of inputs in the connection setup process. Both Looker-hosted and self-hosted deployments were initially vulnerable; however, Google has already mitigated the issue in Looker-hosted environments, requiring no action from users. Self-hosted instances remain vulnerable until upgraded to patched versions starting from 24.12.108 and above. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates network attack vector (AV:N), high complexity (AC:H), partial authentication (AT:P), low privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (VC:H/VI:H/VA:H). This means an attacker with developer access can remotely exploit this flaw without additional user interaction, potentially leading to full system compromise or data breach. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains significant given the nature of the vulnerability and the privileged role required to exploit it.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be severe, especially for those relying on self-hosted Looker instances for business intelligence and data analytics. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized command execution on the Looker server, potentially compromising sensitive business data, intellectual property, and customer information. This could result in data breaches, disruption of analytics operations, and loss of trust. Given Looker's integration with various data sources, attackers might pivot to other internal systems, escalating the breach impact. The high CVSS score reflects the critical nature of confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government within Europe could face regulatory penalties if data is compromised. The fact that Looker-hosted instances are already mitigated reduces risk for cloud users, but self-hosted deployments remain a significant concern.

European organizations using self-hosted Looker must urgently upgrade to the patched versions listed (24.12.108+, 24.18.200+, 25.0.78+, 25.6.65+, 25.8.47+, 25.12.10+, 25.14+). Immediate patching is critical to prevent exploitation. Additionally, organizations should audit and restrict Developer role assignments to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of insider threats. Implement network segmentation and strict access controls around Looker servers to limit exposure. Monitor Looker logs for unusual activity related to database connections and LookML changes. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious command injection attempts. Regularly review and update security policies related to data analytics platforms. Finally, ensure incident response plans include scenarios involving Looker compromise to enable rapid containment and remediation.