CVE-2025-15108 identifies a cryptographic vulnerability in the PandaXGO PandaX software, specifically within the JWT Secret Handler component configured via the config.yml file. The vulnerability arises from the use of a hard-coded cryptographic key, which is embedded directly in the software rather than being dynamically generated or securely stored. This static key can be discovered and exploited by attackers to forge or manipulate JSON Web Tokens (JWTs), potentially bypassing authentication or authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability affects versions up to commit fb8ff40f7ce5dfebdf66306c6d85625061faf7e5, but due to the product’s rolling release system, exact versioning is difficult to ascertain. The attack vector is remote with no need for authentication or user interaction, but the complexity to exploit is high, indicating that a skilled attacker is required. The CVSS 4.0 score of 6.3 reflects medium severity, with network attack vector, high attack complexity, and no privileges or user interaction needed. The vulnerability does not impact integrity or availability directly but compromises confidentiality by exposing cryptographic secrets. No patches or vendor responses have been published, and while no known exploits are currently active in the wild, the public disclosure increases risk. Organizations relying on PandaXGO PandaX for JWT-based authentication are at risk of token forgery or unauthorized access if this vulnerability is exploited.

For European organizations, the use of a hard-coded cryptographic key in PandaXGO PandaX poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of authentication tokens. Exploitation could allow attackers to impersonate legitimate users or escalate privileges, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. This is particularly critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where JWT tokens often protect sensitive transactions and personal data. The medium severity and high complexity of exploitation suggest that while widespread attacks may be limited, targeted attacks against high-value assets are plausible. The lack of vendor response and patch availability increases exposure time, raising the risk of eventual exploitation. Additionally, the rolling release model complicates patch management and vulnerability tracking, potentially delaying remediation efforts. European organizations using PandaXGO PandaX must assess their exposure and implement compensating controls to mitigate risk until a patch is available.

1. Immediately audit all PandaXGO PandaX deployments to identify versions affected by the hard-coded key vulnerability. 2. Replace the hard-coded cryptographic key with a securely generated, environment-specific secret managed through a dedicated secrets management system or hardware security module (HSM). 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on JWT issuance and validation processes to detect anomalous token usage or forgery attempts. 4. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious JWT-related activities. 5. Enforce short token lifetimes and implement token revocation mechanisms to limit the window of exploitation. 6. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploits targeting this vulnerability and prepare incident response plans accordingly. 7. Engage with PandaXGO vendor or community channels to track patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 8. Conduct regular security reviews of cryptographic implementations to prevent similar issues in the future.