CVE-2025-14731 is a vulnerability identified in the CTCMS Content Management System, specifically affecting versions 2.1.0 through 2.1.2. The flaw resides in the Frontend/Template Management Module, within the CT_Parser.php library, where improper neutralization of special elements used in the template engine occurs. This improper neutralization means that an attacker can inject or manipulate template elements remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution or template injection attacks. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, making it remotely exploitable over the network. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.3, reflecting a medium severity level, with low complexity and no privileges required, but limited impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits in the wild have been reported, the availability of a public exploit increases the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability could allow attackers to alter the rendered content, inject malicious scripts, or disrupt service availability by manipulating templates. This poses a risk to websites and applications relying on CTCMS for content delivery, especially those exposing the vulnerable component to the internet. The lack of patches at the time of reporting necessitates interim mitigations such as input validation and restricting access to template management interfaces.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized modification of website content, defacement, or injection of malicious scripts, potentially compromising user data confidentiality and trust. Integrity of web content and availability of services may also be affected if attackers exploit the template engine to disrupt normal operations. Organizations relying on CTCMS for public-facing websites or internal portals could face reputational damage, regulatory scrutiny under GDPR if personal data is exposed, and operational disruptions. The medium severity indicates a moderate risk, but the ease of remote exploitation without authentication increases the threat level. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability as an initial foothold for further attacks within the network. The impact is particularly significant for sectors with high web presence such as government, education, and media organizations in Europe.

1. Monitor official CTCMS vendor channels for security patches addressing CVE-2025-14731 and apply them promptly once released. 2. Until patches are available, implement strict input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data that interacts with the template engine to prevent injection of special elements. 3. Restrict network access to the Frontend/Template Management Module, limiting it to trusted IP addresses or internal networks where possible. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious template injection attempts targeting CT_Parser.php. 5. Conduct regular security audits and code reviews focusing on template handling and input processing. 6. Educate developers and administrators about secure template usage and the risks of improper neutralization. 7. Monitor logs for unusual template processing errors or unexpected content changes that could indicate exploitation attempts.