CVE-2025-31512 is a security vulnerability identified in AlertEnterprise Guardian version 4.1.14.2.2.1. The flaw allows an attacker to bypass the manager approval process in the system's Request Building Access functionality by manipulating the 'isAddedByApprover' parameter in the requestSubmit API call. This bypass effectively undermines the intended access control mechanism, enabling unauthorized users to gain building access without proper managerial consent. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-288, which relates to improper authentication. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.3, indicating a high severity level, with attack vector being network-based (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The impact affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, albeit at a low level for each, as unauthorized access could lead to potential information exposure, unauthorized modifications, or disruption of access control processes. The vendor has addressed this issue in multiple subsequent builds starting from versions 4.1.12.2.1.19 and later, recommending upgrades to these or newer versions to mitigate the risk. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the ease of exploitation and lack of required privileges make this a significant threat if left unpatched.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially for enterprises relying on AlertEnterprise Guardian for physical access management. Unauthorized bypass of manager approval can lead to unauthorized physical access to sensitive facilities, potentially resulting in theft, espionage, or sabotage. The breach of physical security controls can also facilitate further cyber intrusions if attackers gain access to internal networks or systems. Confidentiality may be compromised if sensitive information is accessed or exfiltrated, integrity could be affected if unauthorized changes are made to access logs or configurations, and availability might be impacted if access control systems are manipulated to deny legitimate users. Given the critical nature of physical security in sectors like finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure across Europe, the threat could have cascading effects on operational continuity and regulatory compliance, including GDPR implications if personal data is involved.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading AlertEnterprise Guardian to one of the vendor-recommended build versions or later to remediate this vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should implement compensating controls such as enhanced monitoring and logging of access requests and approvals to detect anomalous activities. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for access request submissions and managerial approvals can add an additional security layer. Regular audits of access control policies and periodic penetration testing focusing on physical access management systems are advisable. Network segmentation should be enforced to isolate access control systems from general IT networks, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, organizations should train security and facilities management personnel to recognize and respond to suspicious access requests promptly. Incident response plans should be updated to include scenarios involving physical access control bypasses.