CVE-2025-48096 identifies a Missing Authorization vulnerability in the FRESHFACE Custom CSS plugin, specifically versions up to and including 1.4.0. This vulnerability arises due to improperly configured access control security levels within the custom-css-editor component, which fails to enforce authorization checks when users attempt to modify CSS settings. As a result, unauthorized users, including unauthenticated attackers or users with limited privileges, may exploit this flaw to gain the ability to edit or inject custom CSS into the affected web applications. Such unauthorized CSS modifications can lead to various attack vectors, including UI redressing, phishing, or misleading users by altering the visual presentation of web pages. The vulnerability does not currently have a CVSS score, nor are there known exploits in the wild, but its presence in a widely used customization plugin poses a significant risk. The lack of authentication requirements for exploitation increases the threat level, as attackers do not need valid credentials to abuse the vulnerability. The issue was reserved in May 2025 and published in October 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No official patches or mitigation links are currently available, emphasizing the need for immediate attention from users of the affected plugin. The vulnerability affects all versions up to 1.4.0, with no specific version range exclusions noted. The root cause is the failure to implement proper access control checks, a fundamental security best practice, which allows unauthorized access to sensitive configuration functions within the plugin.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could have several impacts. Unauthorized modification of CSS can be used to manipulate the user interface, potentially deceiving users into performing unintended actions or disclosing sensitive information through phishing-like tactics. This can undermine user trust and lead to reputational damage. In environments where the plugin is used on customer-facing websites or internal portals, attackers could exploit this to inject misleading visual elements or hide critical security warnings. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise data confidentiality or system integrity, the indirect effects on user behavior and trust can be significant. Additionally, if combined with other vulnerabilities, it could facilitate more complex attack chains. The absence of authentication requirements means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely without credentials, increasing the risk of widespread abuse. European organizations with extensive web presence, especially those relying on FRESHFACE Custom CSS for site customization, are at heightened risk. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before active exploitation occurs.

Organizations should immediately audit their use of the FRESHFACE Custom CSS plugin and restrict access to the custom-css-editor functionality to trusted administrators only. Until an official patch is released, consider disabling the plugin or the custom CSS editing feature if feasible. Implement strict role-based access controls (RBAC) to ensure only authorized personnel can modify CSS settings. Monitor logs and change histories for unauthorized or suspicious CSS modifications. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block anomalous requests targeting the plugin's editing endpoints. Educate administrators about the risks of unauthorized CSS changes and establish incident response procedures for potential misuse. Once a patch becomes available, prioritize its deployment across all affected systems. Additionally, conduct regular security assessments to identify similar access control weaknesses in other plugins or components. For critical web assets, consider implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the impact of unauthorized CSS or script injections.