CVE-2025-14700 is a severe vulnerability identified in the Webhook Template component of Arcadia Technology, LLC's Crafty Controller software, specifically version 4.6.1. The flaw is classified under CWE-1336, which involves improper neutralization of special elements used in a template engine. This vulnerability allows a remote attacker with valid authentication credentials to inject malicious template code via Server Side Template Injection (SSTI). SSTI occurs when user-supplied input is embedded unsafely into server-side templates, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server. In this case, the Webhook Template component fails to properly sanitize or neutralize special template syntax, allowing crafted input to be interpreted as executable code. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 score of 9.9, indicating critical severity, with attack vector network-based, low attack complexity, requiring privileges (authenticated user), no user interaction, and scope change. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the affected system, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification or deletion of data, and disruption of service. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the critical nature and ease of exploitation by authenticated users make this a significant threat. The vulnerability affects only version 4.6.1 of Crafty Controller, a product used for automation and orchestration tasks, which may be integrated into enterprise environments. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate risk mitigation strategies. Given the nature of the vulnerability, attackers could leverage it to pivot within networks, escalate privileges, or disrupt operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-14700 can be substantial, especially those relying on Crafty Controller for automation, orchestration, or integration workflows. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, resulting in data breaches, operational disruption, or lateral movement within corporate networks. Confidentiality is at high risk as attackers can access sensitive information processed or stored by the controller. Integrity is compromised since attackers can alter configurations, scripts, or data flows. Availability may be affected if attackers disrupt automation processes or cause system crashes. Critical infrastructure sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and telecommunications that use automation tools are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for authentication limits exposure but insider threats or compromised credentials increase risk. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high CVSS score underscores urgency. Organizations failing to address this vulnerability may face regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is compromised, as well as reputational damage and financial losses.

1. Immediately restrict access to the Webhook Template component by limiting user permissions to only trusted administrators and operators. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all template inputs to prevent injection of special template syntax. 3. Monitor logs and system behavior for unusual template processing or execution patterns indicative of SSTI attempts. 4. Employ network segmentation to isolate Crafty Controller instances from critical systems to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 5. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce risk from compromised credentials. 6. Regularly audit user accounts and revoke unnecessary privileges to minimize the attack surface. 7. Engage with Arcadia Technology for timely patch releases and apply updates as soon as they become available. 8. Consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SSTI payloads targeting the webhook templates. 9. Conduct security awareness training for administrators on the risks of template injection and safe configuration practices. 10. Prepare incident response plans specific to automation platform compromises to enable rapid containment and recovery.