CVE-2025-13661 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 affecting Ivanti Endpoint Manager prior to version 2024 SU4 SR1. The flaw allows a remote attacker with valid authentication to write arbitrary files outside the intended directory structure by exploiting improper validation of pathname inputs. This can lead to overwriting or creating files in sensitive locations, potentially enabling privilege escalation, code execution, or disruption of system operations. The vulnerability requires user interaction, such as an authenticated user performing specific actions that trigger the path traversal. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.1, reflecting a high severity due to the network attack vector, low attack complexity, low privileges required, and user interaction needed. The impact spans confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as attackers can manipulate critical files or configurations. Although no public exploits are reported yet, the vulnerability's nature and affected product's widespread use in enterprise endpoint management make it a significant threat. Ivanti Endpoint Manager is commonly used for patch management, software distribution, and device control, making exploitation impactful in corporate environments.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized modification or creation of files on managed endpoints or servers, potentially resulting in data breaches, malware deployment, or disruption of IT operations. Given Ivanti Endpoint Manager's role in managing endpoint security and software updates, attackers could leverage this flaw to bypass security controls, implant persistent threats, or disrupt patch management processes. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government entities relying on Ivanti solutions may face increased risk of operational downtime, data loss, or regulatory non-compliance. The requirement for authentication and user interaction somewhat limits mass exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with many users or weak access controls. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for mitigation before active attacks emerge.

1. Immediately upgrade Ivanti Endpoint Manager to version 2024 SU4 SR1 or later where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Enforce the principle of least privilege by restricting user permissions to only those necessary for their roles, minimizing the number of users who can authenticate and trigger the vulnerability. 3. Implement strict input validation and monitoring on systems managing Ivanti Endpoint Manager to detect unusual file write activities or attempts to access unauthorized directories. 4. Use application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify and block suspicious file modifications. 5. Conduct regular audits of file system integrity on critical servers and endpoints managed by Ivanti to detect unauthorized changes. 6. Educate users about the risk of interacting with potentially malicious content or workflows that could trigger the vulnerability. 7. Network segmentation can limit the exposure of Ivanti Endpoint Manager interfaces to trusted internal users only. 8. Monitor vendor advisories and threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit attempts or additional patches.