CVE-2025-26278 is a vulnerability identified in version 0.1.2 of the dref library, specifically within the lib.set function. The issue is a prototype pollution vulnerability, which occurs when an attacker is able to manipulate the prototype of a base object. In JavaScript, prototype pollution can lead to unexpected behavior by modifying the properties of all objects inheriting from the polluted prototype. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker to supply a crafted payload to the lib.set function, resulting in prototype pollution. The primary impact of this vulnerability is a Denial of Service (DoS), where the application or service using the vulnerable dref library may crash or become unresponsive due to corrupted internal state or infinite loops triggered by the polluted prototype. No authenticated access or user interaction is explicitly required, which increases the risk of exploitation if the vulnerable function is exposed to untrusted inputs. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and could be targeted by attackers once exploit code becomes available. The lack of a CVSS score means severity must be assessed based on the nature of the vulnerability, its impact, and ease of exploitation. Prototype pollution vulnerabilities can sometimes lead to more severe consequences such as remote code execution or privilege escalation, but in this case, the documented impact is limited to DoS. The affected version is specifically dref v0.1.2, and no patch links are currently provided, indicating that remediation may require manual mitigation or updates from the library maintainers.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-26278 depends largely on the extent to which the dref library is used within their software stacks. Since dref is a JavaScript utility library, it is likely integrated into web applications, backend services, or development tools. A successful DoS attack exploiting this vulnerability could disrupt critical services, leading to downtime, loss of availability, and potential reputational damage. Organizations in sectors with high availability requirements such as finance, healthcare, and public services could face operational interruptions. Additionally, if the vulnerable function is exposed via APIs or web interfaces accessible externally, attackers could remotely trigger the DoS without authentication, increasing risk. While the vulnerability does not currently have known exploits in the wild, the public disclosure means attackers may develop exploits, raising the threat level over time. European organizations relying on third-party software that includes dref v0.1.2 should be aware of this risk, especially if they do not have robust input validation or runtime protections. The DoS impact could also be leveraged as part of multi-stage attacks, amplifying disruption or masking other malicious activities.

To mitigate CVE-2025-26278, European organizations should first identify any usage of the dref library version 0.1.2 within their software environments. This includes direct dependencies and transitive dependencies in web applications, backend services, and development tools. If possible, upgrade to a patched or newer version of dref that addresses the prototype pollution vulnerability once available. In the absence of an official patch, consider applying temporary workarounds such as sanitizing and validating all inputs passed to the lib.set function to prevent crafted payloads from manipulating object prototypes. Employ runtime protections such as JavaScript sandboxing, strict mode, or object freezing to limit prototype modifications. Additionally, implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or API gateways with rules to detect and block suspicious payloads targeting prototype pollution patterns. Monitor application logs and behavior for signs of abnormal crashes or unresponsiveness that could indicate exploitation attempts. Finally, coordinate with software vendors and development teams to prioritize remediation and incorporate secure coding practices to prevent prototype pollution vulnerabilities in future development.