CVE-2025-27452 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting the Endress+Hauser MEAC300-FNADE4 device, specifically related to the Apache httpd webserver configuration used by its web application. The vulnerability arises because the webserver has certain modules enabled that are unnecessary for the operation of the FNADE4 application. These modules inadvertently allow directory listing functionality, which exposes the contents of directories to unauthenticated remote attackers. This exposure can lead to information disclosure, as attackers may gain access to sensitive files, configuration data, or other resources that should not be publicly accessible. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-548, which pertains to exposure of information through directory listing. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.3, indicating a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impact limited to confidentiality (C:L) without affecting integrity or availability. 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 February 2025 and published in July 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The root cause is insecure default or misconfigured Apache modules that enable directory listing, which is a common webserver misconfiguration issue but critical in industrial control or measurement devices like the MEAC300-FNADE4, where exposure of internal files could aid attackers in further exploitation or reconnaissance.

For European organizations using the Endress+Hauser MEAC300-FNADE4, particularly in industrial automation, process measurement, or critical infrastructure sectors, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized information disclosure. Attackers could remotely access directory listings without authentication, potentially revealing sensitive configuration files, credentials, or system details that facilitate further attacks such as targeted intrusions or disruption of industrial processes. Although the vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or denial of service, the information gained could be leveraged to compromise confidentiality and aid in lateral movement within networks. Given the critical role of Endress+Hauser devices in sectors like manufacturing, utilities, and chemical processing, the exposure could lead to operational risks, regulatory compliance issues (e.g., GDPR if personal data is exposed), and reputational damage. The ease of exploitation (no privileges or user interaction required) increases the threat level, especially in environments where these devices are accessible from less trusted networks or the internet. European organizations with network segmentation and strict access controls may mitigate some risk, but those with flat networks or remote access to these devices are more vulnerable.

To mitigate CVE-2025-27452, European organizations should take the following specific actions: 1) Immediately review and harden the Apache httpd configuration on MEAC300-FNADE4 devices by disabling unnecessary modules that enable directory listing, such as mod_autoindex or similar. 2) Explicitly disable directory listing by setting 'Options -Indexes' in the Apache configuration files serving the FNADE4 web application. 3) Restrict network access to the device’s web interface by implementing firewall rules, VPNs, or network segmentation to limit exposure to trusted management networks only. 4) Conduct thorough audits of the device’s web directories to ensure no sensitive files are publicly accessible. 5) Monitor network traffic and logs for unusual access patterns to the device’s webserver. 6) Engage with Endress+Hauser support for any forthcoming patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 7) Incorporate this vulnerability into vulnerability management and incident response plans to ensure timely detection and remediation. 8) Educate operational technology (OT) and IT security teams about the risks of webserver misconfigurations in industrial devices to prevent similar issues.