CVE-2025-41044 is a stored Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in version 4.0.5 of the appRain CMF (Content Management Framework). The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of user input, specifically in the 'data[Page][name]' parameter within the endpoint /apprain/page/manage-static-pages/create. Because the input is not properly validated or sanitized, an authenticated attacker can inject malicious scripts that are stored on the server and later executed in the browsers of users who access the affected pages. This type of stored XSS can lead to session hijacking, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.1 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, no privileges, but does require user interaction (the victim must visit the malicious page). The vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality, integrity, or availability directly but can be leveraged for further attacks. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in April 2025 and published in September 2025. The CWE classification is CWE-79, which corresponds to improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The vulnerability affects only version 4.0.5 of appRain CMF, a framework used to build and manage web content, which may be deployed in various organizational websites and portals.

For European organizations using appRain CMF version 4.0.5, this vulnerability poses a risk of client-side attacks via stored XSS. Attackers with authenticated access can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of users visiting the compromised pages, potentially leading to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users. This can damage organizational reputation, lead to data breaches, and disrupt user trust. While the vulnerability does not directly affect system availability or data integrity, the indirect consequences of successful exploitation can be significant, especially for organizations handling sensitive user data or financial transactions. Public-facing websites or intranet portals using the vulnerable version are at higher risk. Given the medium severity and the requirement for authenticated access and user interaction, the threat is moderate but should not be underestimated, especially in sectors with high regulatory compliance requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government within Europe.

1. Immediate upgrade or patching: Organizations should monitor appRain vendor communications for patches addressing CVE-2025-41044 and apply them promptly once available. 2. Input validation and sanitization: Until a patch is available, implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block malicious payloads targeting the 'data[Page][name]' parameter. 3. Restrict authenticated user privileges: Limit the ability to create or manage static pages to trusted administrators only, reducing the attack surface. 4. Implement Content Security Policy (CSP): Deploy strict CSP headers to mitigate the impact of XSS by restricting script execution sources. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on input validation in appRain CMF deployments. 6. Educate users about phishing and suspicious links to reduce the risk of user interaction with malicious content. 7. Monitor logs for unusual activity related to page creation or modification endpoints to detect potential exploitation attempts early.