CVE-2025-13198 is a vulnerability identified in DouPHP up to version 1.8 Release 20251022, specifically in the file upload/include/file.class.php component. The issue arises from improper handling of the File argument, which allows an attacker to perform unrestricted file uploads. This means an attacker can upload arbitrary files, potentially including malicious scripts, to the server. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have high-level privileges (PR:H) but does not require user interaction (UI:N) and can be exploited remotely (AV:N). The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates low impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (VC:L, VI:L, VA:L), suggesting that while the vulnerability is exploitable, the damage scope is somewhat limited. The lack of scope change (S:N) means the attack affects only the vulnerable component without extending to other system components. No public exploits are currently known in the wild, but the exploit details have been disclosed publicly, increasing the risk of future exploitation. The vulnerability could allow attackers to upload malicious files, leading to potential web shell deployment, data tampering, or service disruption depending on the server configuration and uploaded payload. DouPHP is a PHP-based content management system used primarily for building websites, so the vulnerability primarily threatens web servers running this software. The absence of official patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate mitigation steps by administrators.

For European organizations using DouPHP 1.8, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized file uploads, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, deface websites, or disrupt services. This could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of hosted data and impact availability if malicious payloads cause service outages. Organizations in sectors with high web presence such as e-commerce, media, and public services are particularly at risk. The requirement for high privileges limits the attack surface to insiders or compromised accounts, but if such access is obtained, the impact could be significant. Given the public disclosure of the exploit, there is an increased risk of opportunistic attacks targeting vulnerable European web servers. The impact is heightened in countries with higher adoption rates of DouPHP or similar PHP CMS platforms and where web infrastructure security practices may be less mature.

1. Immediately restrict file upload permissions to only trusted users and roles with a strict need. 2. Implement robust server-side validation of uploaded files, including checking MIME types, file extensions, and scanning for malicious content. 3. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious upload attempts targeting the vulnerable endpoint. 4. Monitor server logs and file system changes for unauthorized uploads or modifications. 5. Isolate the upload directory with minimal permissions and disable execution rights on uploaded files to prevent code execution. 6. If possible, upgrade to a patched version of DouPHP once available or apply vendor-recommended patches. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on file upload functionalities. 8. Educate administrators and developers about the risks of unrestricted uploads and enforce secure coding practices. 9. Use multi-factor authentication and strict access controls to reduce the risk of privilege escalation that could enable exploitation.