CVE-2025-1686 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path) affecting all versions of the io.pebbletemplates:pebble package. The flaw arises from the unsafe handling of the include tag within Pebble Templates, which allows an attacker with high privileges to craft malicious templates that include arbitrary local files on the server. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive system files such as /etc/passwd or environment files like /proc/1/environ, potentially exposing system configuration, user credentials, or environment variables. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network, given the attacker has high privileges on the system. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 6.1, indicating a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required for attack initiation but high privileges needed for exploitation, and no user interaction. The vulnerability can be mitigated by disabling the include macro in the Pebble template engine using the provided Java code snippet that disallows the include tag via an extension customizer. No official patches are listed, so disabling the include tag is the primary workaround. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a risk of local file disclosure in affected applications.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive local files, which may contain critical system information, user data, or environment variables. This could facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation, lateral movement, or targeted data theft. Organizations using Java-based web applications or services that incorporate the Pebble templating engine are at risk, especially if these applications process user-controlled templates or notifications. The impact is heightened in environments where attackers already have high privileges, such as compromised internal systems or privileged insiders. Confidentiality is primarily affected, with potential indirect impacts on integrity and availability if attackers leverage disclosed information for further exploitation. The vulnerability could affect sectors with critical infrastructure or sensitive data, including finance, healthcare, and government services across Europe.

European organizations should first inventory their software to identify any usage of the io.pebbletemplates:pebble package. If found, they should immediately implement the recommended workaround by disabling the include macro in Pebble Templates using the provided Java code snippet to disallow the include tag. Additionally, organizations should restrict high privilege access to the systems running Pebble templates to minimize the risk of exploitation. Monitoring and logging template rendering activities can help detect attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Where possible, upgrade to a patched version once available or apply vendor patches promptly. Conduct code reviews to ensure that template inputs are properly sanitized and that no untrusted user input can influence template rendering. Finally, implement defense-in-depth controls such as file system access restrictions and application sandboxing to limit the impact of any successful exploitation.