CVE-2025-34281 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in ThingsBoard, an open-source IoT platform widely used for device management and data visualization. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 4.2.1 within the dashboard's Image Upload Gallery feature. Specifically, the issue arises from insufficient sanitization and improper content-type validation of uploaded SVG files. An attacker with low privileges can upload an SVG file containing embedded malicious JavaScript code. When the dashboard UI renders this SVG image, the embedded script executes in the context of the victim's browser session. This can lead to a range of attacks including session hijacking, unauthorized actions on behalf of the user, or theft of sensitive information accessible via the web interface. The vulnerability requires user interaction, as the malicious SVG must be viewed in the dashboard UI to trigger the payload. The CVSS 4.0 vector (AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:P/VC:N/VI:N/VA:N/SC:L/SI:L/SA:N) indicates network attack vector, low attack complexity, no authentication required beyond low privileges, and user interaction needed, with limited scope and impact confined to the web interface. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a moderate risk given the widespread use of ThingsBoard in industrial and enterprise IoT environments. The lack of proper SVG sanitization and content-type validation is a common vector for XSS attacks, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and output encoding in web applications handling user-uploaded content.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those relying on ThingsBoard for critical IoT infrastructure management, industrial automation, or smart city applications. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of authenticated users, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized control over IoT devices managed via the platform. This could disrupt operations, compromise sensitive telemetry data, or enable lateral movement within the network. Given the increasing adoption of IoT solutions across European industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation, the vulnerability could affect operational continuity and data confidentiality. Additionally, regulatory frameworks like GDPR impose strict requirements on data protection; a successful attack exploiting this XSS could lead to data breaches and consequent legal and reputational damage. Although the CVSS score is medium, the potential for chained attacks or exploitation in combination with other vulnerabilities could elevate the overall risk profile.

European organizations using ThingsBoard should immediately upgrade to version 4.2.1 or later where this vulnerability is patched. In the absence of an available patch, implement strict file upload controls by restricting allowed file types and enforcing server-side validation to reject SVG files or sanitize them thoroughly before storage and rendering. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of inline scripts and reduce the impact of XSS attacks. Regularly audit and monitor dashboard activity for suspicious uploads or user behavior. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted content within the platform. Network segmentation and least privilege principles should be enforced to limit the potential damage from compromised accounts. Additionally, consider deploying web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block malicious SVG payloads. Continuous vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on web interface components can help identify similar issues proactively.