CVE-2025-34264 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79 affecting Advantech Co., Ltd.'s WISE-DeviceOn Server software versions prior to 5.4. The vulnerability exists in the /rmm/v1/dog/{agentId} REST API endpoint, which handles Software Watchdog process rules for agents. When an authenticated user adds or edits these rules, the monitored process name is stored in a settings array and later rendered in the Software Watchdog UI without proper HTML encoding or sanitization. This improper neutralization of input allows an attacker with authenticated access to inject malicious JavaScript code into the process name field. When other users view or interact with the affected rules in the UI, the malicious script executes in their browser context. This can lead to session token theft, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the victim, or other browser-based attacks. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have at least low privileges (authenticated user) and some user interaction (viewing or interacting with the infected UI component). The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required beyond authentication, user interaction required, and low impact on confidentiality and integrity. No public exploits are known at this time, but the vulnerability poses a risk especially in environments where multiple users manage or monitor devices via WISE-DeviceOn Server. The lack of proper input validation and output encoding in the UI rendering pipeline is the root cause. Since the affected versions are prior to 5.4, upgrading to 5.4 or later versions that include proper sanitization is the primary remediation. Until patched, organizations should restrict access to the management interface, monitor for suspicious activity, and educate users about the risk of interacting with untrusted inputs.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and control over device management interfaces if exploited. Since WISE-DeviceOn Server is used for managing industrial IoT devices and edge computing assets, compromise could disrupt operational technology (OT) environments, leading to potential downtime or manipulation of critical infrastructure. The XSS attack could allow attackers to hijack sessions of administrators or operators, enabling lateral movement or injection of further malicious commands. Confidentiality of session tokens and integrity of device management workflows are at risk. Although the vulnerability requires authenticated access, insider threats or compromised credentials could be leveraged by attackers. The impact is particularly significant for sectors relying on Advantech's solutions for industrial automation, smart manufacturing, and critical infrastructure management, which are prevalent in European countries with advanced manufacturing and energy sectors. Disruption or unauthorized control in these environments could have cascading effects on supply chains and service availability.

1. Upgrade Advantech WISE-DeviceOn Server to version 5.4 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed with proper input sanitization and output encoding. 2. Restrict access to the management interface to trusted networks and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as multi-factor authentication (MFA). 3. Implement strict role-based access controls (RBAC) to limit who can add or edit Software Watchdog process rules. 4. Monitor logs and user activities for unusual modifications to process rules or unexpected UI interactions. 5. Educate administrators and users about the risks of XSS and encourage cautious interaction with device management interfaces. 6. Use web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious script injection attempts targeting the affected endpoint. 7. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on the device management platform to identify and remediate similar input validation issues. 8. If immediate patching is not possible, consider isolating the WISE-DeviceOn Server management UI behind VPNs or jump hosts to reduce exposure.