CVE-2025-48096 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the FRESHFACE Custom CSS plugin, specifically versions up to and including 1.4.0. The vulnerability arises from improperly configured access control mechanisms within the custom-css-editor component, allowing unauthenticated remote attackers to bypass authorization checks. This enables attackers to modify CSS configurations without permission, potentially altering the appearance or behavior of web applications that rely on this plugin. The vulnerability is exploitable over the network without requiring any privileges or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating medium severity, with the vector string AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N, meaning the attack can be launched remotely with low attack complexity, no privileges, and no user interaction, affecting confidentiality and integrity but not availability. Although no public exploits have been reported, the vulnerability could be leveraged to deface websites, inject misleading visual elements, or conduct phishing attacks by manipulating CSS. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations using FRESHFACE Custom CSS in their web infrastructure, as unauthorized CSS changes can undermine trust and brand integrity.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the confidentiality and integrity of web presentation layers. Unauthorized CSS modifications could lead to visual defacement, misleading content display, or user interface manipulation, potentially facilitating phishing or social engineering attacks. While the vulnerability does not directly impact system availability, the reputational damage and potential loss of user trust can have significant business consequences. Organizations in sectors with high web presence, such as e-commerce, media, and public services, are especially vulnerable. The ease of exploitation without authentication increases the threat level, as attackers can remotely target vulnerable systems without needing insider access. Given the medium severity, the impact is moderate but could escalate if combined with other vulnerabilities or used as a foothold for further attacks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation.

1. Monitor for official patches or updates from FRESHFACE and apply them promptly once available. 2. Until patches are released, restrict access to the custom-css-editor interface using network-level controls such as IP whitelisting or VPN access. 3. Implement web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block unauthorized requests targeting the CSS editor endpoints. 4. Conduct regular audits of CSS configurations and version control to detect unauthorized changes quickly. 5. Employ strict role-based access controls (RBAC) within the content management environment to limit who can modify CSS settings. 6. Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for anomalous activities related to CSS editing. 7. Educate web administrators about the risks of unauthorized CSS changes and encourage vigilance. 8. Consider isolating the CSS editing functionality on separate subdomains or environments with enhanced security controls. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on access restriction, monitoring, and rapid detection tailored to this specific vulnerability.