Advantech WebAccess/SCADA version 9.2.1 contains a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-14849, categorized under CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type). This vulnerability allows an attacker with low privileges (PR:L) to upload arbitrary files without sufficient validation, leading to remote code execution (RCE) capabilities. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and can be exploited remotely over the network (AV:N), making it highly accessible to attackers. The scope of impact is unchanged (S:U), but the consequences affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level (C:H/I:H/A:H). The flaw arises because the WebAccess/SCADA platform fails to properly restrict or sanitize uploaded files, allowing malicious payloads to be placed on the server. Once uploaded, these files can be executed by the system, enabling attackers to gain control over the SCADA environment. This is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where such platforms manage critical infrastructure processes. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability's characteristics and high CVSS score indicate a strong potential for exploitation. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for organizations to adopt compensating controls. The vulnerability was reserved and published in December 2025 by ICS-CERT, highlighting its relevance to industrial cybersecurity. Given the critical role of Advantech WebAccess/SCADA in monitoring and controlling industrial operations, exploitation could lead to severe operational disruptions, data theft, or sabotage.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-14849 is significant, especially those operating in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, manufacturing, transportation, and utilities where Advantech WebAccess/SCADA is deployed. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to manipulate industrial processes, cause downtime, or exfiltrate sensitive operational data. This can result in financial losses, safety hazards, regulatory penalties, and damage to national security. The vulnerability's remote exploitability and lack of required user interaction increase the risk of widespread attacks. European industries relying on automation and SCADA systems are particularly vulnerable to disruptions that could cascade into broader supply chain issues. Additionally, the potential for espionage or sabotage elevates the threat level amid current geopolitical tensions. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score underscores the need for immediate action to prevent future incidents.

1. Immediately restrict file upload permissions in Advantech WebAccess/SCADA to only trusted users and roles. 2. Implement strict file type validation and sanitization on all upload endpoints to prevent dangerous file types from being accepted. 3. Employ network segmentation to isolate SCADA systems from general IT networks and limit exposure to external threats. 4. Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual file upload activity or execution attempts, using IDS/IPS tuned for SCADA environments. 5. Apply virtual patching via web application firewalls (WAF) to block malicious upload attempts until an official patch is released. 6. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on file upload functionalities. 7. Educate operational technology (OT) personnel on the risks associated with file uploads and enforce strict operational procedures. 8. Coordinate with Advantech for timely updates and patches, and subscribe to ICS-CERT advisories for ongoing threat intelligence. 9. Backup critical SCADA configurations and data to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 10. Limit administrative access to SCADA systems using multi-factor authentication and least privilege principles.