CVE-2025-24854 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Apache JSPWiki software, specifically triggered via the Image plugin. Apache JSPWiki is a Java-based wiki engine used for collaborative content creation and management. The vulnerability arises due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation (CWE-79), allowing an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code into the web pages rendered by JSPWiki. When a victim accesses a compromised or maliciously crafted page, the injected script executes in their browser context. This can lead to theft of sensitive information such as session cookies, authentication tokens, or other data accessible within the victim's browser session. The vulnerability is exploitable by sending a carefully crafted request that leverages the Image plugin’s input handling flaws. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the risk remains significant due to the potential for client-side code execution. The Apache Software Foundation has addressed this issue in version 2.12.3 and later, recommending all users upgrade to these versions to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction beyond visiting a maliciously crafted page, increasing its potential impact. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, but the nature of the vulnerability and its exploitation vector indicate a serious security concern.

For European organizations using Apache JSPWiki, this vulnerability poses a risk to confidentiality and integrity of user sessions and data. Attackers exploiting this XSS flaw could hijack user sessions, steal credentials, or perform actions on behalf of users, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate information or internal wiki content. This is particularly impactful for organizations relying on JSPWiki for internal documentation, knowledge sharing, or project collaboration, as compromised user accounts could facilitate lateral movement or data exfiltration. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted phishing campaigns where attackers lure users to maliciously crafted JSPWiki pages. Given the collaborative nature of wikis, the spread of malicious scripts could affect multiple users rapidly. The availability impact is limited, as the vulnerability primarily targets client-side execution rather than server availability. However, reputational damage and compliance risks (e.g., GDPR) arise if personal or sensitive data is exposed due to exploitation. European organizations with strict data protection regulations must prioritize remediation to avoid regulatory penalties and maintain trust.

1. Immediate upgrade to Apache JSPWiki version 2.12.3 or later, as recommended by the Apache Software Foundation, to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts within the wiki environment, reducing the impact of potential XSS attacks. 3. Conduct input validation and output encoding reviews for any custom plugins or extensions used alongside JSPWiki, especially those handling user-generated content or images. 4. Monitor web server and application logs for unusual requests targeting the Image plugin or suspicious query parameters indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Educate users on the risks of clicking unknown or suspicious links within the wiki platform and encourage reporting of any unexpected behavior. 6. Employ web application firewalls (WAF) with rules tailored to detect and block XSS payloads targeting JSPWiki. 7. Regularly audit and update all third-party components and plugins integrated with JSPWiki to minimize the attack surface.