CVE-2025-53120 is a critical path traversal vulnerability identified in Securden Unified PAM version 9.0.*, which allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit an upload functionality flaw. The vulnerability arises from improper limitation of pathname inputs (CWE-22), enabling attackers to bypass directory restrictions and upload arbitrary binaries or scripts directly into sensitive server directories, including configuration and web root folders. This unauthorized upload capability leads to remote code execution (RCE) on the Unified PAM server without requiring any authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.4, reflecting its critical severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. Exploiting this flaw could allow attackers to fully compromise the PAM server, potentially gaining control over privileged access management functions, which are critical for securing enterprise credentials and access policies. Although no public exploits are currently known in the wild, the high severity and ease of exploitation make this a significant threat. The vulnerability was published on August 25, 2025, with the issue reserved in June 2025. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for organizations to implement mitigations and monitor for updates from Securden.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is substantial due to the critical role of PAM solutions in managing privileged access and securing sensitive credentials. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the Unified PAM server, enabling attackers to manipulate access controls, escalate privileges, and move laterally within enterprise networks. This could result in data breaches, disruption of business operations, and exposure of sensitive information protected by PAM policies. Given the unauthenticated nature of the exploit and the ability to achieve remote code execution, attackers could deploy malware, ransomware, or persistent backdoors, severely impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Organizations in sectors with stringent regulatory requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government are particularly at risk of compliance violations and reputational damage. The vulnerability’s presence in a widely used PAM product increases the attack surface across European enterprises that rely on Securden Unified PAM for privileged access management.

Immediate mitigation steps include restricting network exposure of the Unified PAM server to trusted internal networks and implementing strict firewall rules to limit access to the upload functionality. Organizations should conduct thorough monitoring of server logs for unusual upload activity or unauthorized file changes in configuration and web root directories. Employing application-layer filtering or web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block path traversal attempts can provide an additional protective layer. Until an official patch is released by Securden, consider disabling or restricting the vulnerable upload functionality if feasible. Regularly update and audit PAM configurations and credentials to detect any unauthorized changes. Implement network segmentation to isolate the PAM server from less trusted network zones. Finally, maintain a robust incident response plan to quickly address any signs of compromise related to this vulnerability.