CVE-2025-34293 is an authorization bypass vulnerability categorized under CWE-639 (Authorization Bypass Through User-Controlled Key) affecting the GN4 Publishing System by Naviga Global / Miles 33. The flaw exists in versions prior to 2.6 within the system's API, which handles object requests tied to user accounts. Authenticated users can exploit an insecure direct object reference (IDOR) by manipulating API requests to specify arbitrary user IDs, thereby retrieving sensitive data belonging to other users. This data includes encrypted passwords and security recovery information such as security questions and answers. Because the API does not properly enforce authorization checks on these object endpoints, attackers with valid credentials can access data beyond their privileges. The exposure of recovery data and encrypted passwords facilitates account takeover attacks, allowing adversaries to reset passwords or bypass authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability requires no user interaction and no elevated privileges beyond authentication, making it easier to exploit. The CVSS 4.0 score of 8.6 reflects network attack vector, low attack complexity, no required privileges beyond authentication, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality and integrity. Although no known exploits are publicly reported, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations using affected GN4 Publishing System versions, especially those managing sensitive user accounts or critical publishing workflows. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate mitigation efforts.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a serious risk of unauthorized access to sensitive user account data, potentially leading to widespread account compromise and data breaches. Organizations in media, publishing, and digital content sectors that rely on GN4 Publishing System for managing user accounts and content workflows could suffer operational disruptions and reputational damage. The exposure of encrypted passwords and recovery information increases the likelihood of account takeovers, which can be leveraged for further lateral movement or data exfiltration. Regulatory compliance risks are also significant, as unauthorized disclosure of personal data may violate GDPR and other data protection laws, resulting in legal penalties and fines. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation and high impact on confidentiality and integrity make it a critical concern for European entities with sensitive or high-value user data. Additionally, compromised accounts could be used to manipulate published content or disrupt publishing operations, affecting business continuity and trust.

1. Upgrade the GN4 Publishing System to version 2.6 or later as soon as the vendor releases a patch addressing this vulnerability. 2. Until patching is possible, implement strict access controls on the API endpoints, ensuring that users can only access their own data by enforcing server-side authorization checks. 3. Employ API gateways or web application firewalls (WAFs) to monitor and block suspicious API requests that attempt to access arbitrary user IDs. 4. Conduct thorough audits of API logs to detect anomalous access patterns indicative of IDOR exploitation attempts. 5. Enforce strong authentication mechanisms and consider multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of account takeover and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious account activity. 7. Review and harden password recovery and reset processes to prevent abuse using exposed recovery data. 8. Implement network segmentation and least privilege principles to limit the impact of any successful exploitation. 9. Coordinate with the vendor for timely vulnerability disclosures and updates.