CVE-2025-2181 is a vulnerability identified in Palo Alto Networks' Checkov by Prisma Cloud, specifically affecting version 3.2.0. The issue is categorized under CWE-312, which pertains to the cleartext storage of sensitive information. In this case, the vulnerability allows Prisma Cloud access keys to be exposed in cleartext within Checkov's output. Checkov is a static code analysis tool used to scan infrastructure-as-code (IaC) templates for security misconfigurations and compliance violations. The exposure of access keys in cleartext output can lead to unauthorized access if an attacker obtains these keys, potentially compromising cloud environments managed via Prisma Cloud. The CVSS 4.0 base score for this vulnerability is 5.9, indicating a medium severity level. The vector indicates that the attack can be performed remotely without privileges but requires user interaction. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality significantly, as sensitive credentials are disclosed, but does not affect integrity or availability directly. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in March 2025 and published in August 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk, particularly for those using Palo Alto Networks' Prisma Cloud and Checkov for cloud security and compliance monitoring. Exposure of Prisma Cloud access keys can lead to unauthorized cloud resource access, potentially resulting in data breaches, unauthorized resource manipulation, or lateral movement within cloud environments. Given the increasing adoption of cloud infrastructure and IaC practices across Europe, organizations relying on these tools may face risks to their cloud asset confidentiality. The impact is more pronounced in sectors with stringent data protection requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where unauthorized access could lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR and other compliance frameworks. However, the requirement for user interaction and the absence of privilege requirements somewhat limit the ease of exploitation, reducing the immediacy of the threat. Still, the potential for credential leakage necessitates prompt attention to prevent escalation.

Organizations should immediately audit their usage of Checkov by Prisma Cloud, especially version 3.2.0, to identify any exposure of Prisma Cloud access keys in output logs or reports. Until an official patch is released, it is advisable to avoid using Checkov outputs in environments where unauthorized personnel could access them. Implement strict access controls and encryption for storage and transmission of Checkov outputs. Rotate Prisma Cloud access keys regularly and revoke any keys suspected to be exposed. Employ environment variable or secret management solutions to avoid embedding sensitive keys in code or outputs. Monitor cloud environments for unusual access patterns that could indicate compromised credentials. Additionally, coordinate with Palo Alto Networks for updates and patches, and apply them promptly once available. Educate developers and security teams about the risks of cleartext credential exposure and enforce secure coding and scanning practices.