CVE-2025-48913 is a security vulnerability identified in the Apache CXF framework, a widely used open-source services framework that helps build and develop services using frontend programming APIs like JAX-WS and JAX-RS. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation (CWE-20) in the configuration of Java Message Service (JMS) endpoints. Specifically, if untrusted users are permitted to configure JMS URLs in Apache CXF versions 4.0.0 and 4.1.0, they could supply Remote Method Invocation (RMI) or Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) URLs. These protocols can be exploited to perform remote code execution (RCE) attacks by loading malicious code or objects from attacker-controlled servers. This vulnerability arises because the system previously did not restrict or sanitize the protocols allowed in JMS configuration, enabling attackers to leverage these protocols to execute arbitrary code on the server hosting Apache CXF. The issue has been addressed in Apache CXF versions 3.6.8, 4.0.9, and 4.1.3 by restricting the JMS configuration interface to reject RMI and LDAP protocols, thereby mitigating the risk of code execution. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the potential for severe impact exists if the vulnerability is exploited. The vulnerability affects versions 4.0.0 and 4.1.0, and possibly earlier versions, as indicated by the affectedVersions list including '0' (likely a placeholder or error). The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on August 8, 2025, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-48913 could be significant, especially for those relying on Apache CXF for building and deploying web services and enterprise applications. Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, deploy malware, or gain persistent access to critical systems. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and services. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and telecommunications, which often use Java-based middleware and messaging services, could face data breaches, service disruptions, or regulatory non-compliance issues under GDPR. The ability to execute code remotely without authentication or user interaction (if untrusted users can configure JMS) increases the threat level. Additionally, supply chain and internal enterprise applications using Apache CXF could be leveraged as attack vectors, potentially leading to lateral movement within networks. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests a window of opportunity for proactive mitigation before widespread attacks occur.

European organizations should immediately audit their use of Apache CXF, particularly versions 4.0.0 and 4.1.0, to identify any JMS configurations that allow untrusted user input. The primary mitigation is to upgrade Apache CXF to versions 3.6.8, 4.0.9, or 4.1.3, which contain the fix restricting dangerous protocols in JMS configuration. Organizations should also implement strict access controls to ensure only trusted administrators can configure JMS endpoints. Network segmentation and firewall rules should restrict outbound RMI and LDAP traffic from application servers to prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, monitoring and alerting on unusual JMS configuration changes or unexpected network connections using RMI or LDAP protocols can provide early detection. Security teams should review application logs for suspicious activity related to JMS configuration changes. Finally, organizations should consider applying runtime application self-protection (RASP) or web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block attempts to exploit this vulnerability.