CVE-2025-54392 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Netwrix Directory Manager (formerly Imanami GroupID) versions prior to 11.1.25162.02. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of authentication error data, allowing an attacker to inject malicious scripts into the authentication error messages displayed by the application. Unlike the previously known CVE-2025-47189, this is a distinct vulnerability affecting a different component or mechanism within the same product. XSS vulnerabilities enable attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser session, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or the delivery of further malicious payloads. Since this vulnerability is triggered during authentication error handling, it may be exploitable by unauthenticated users who can cause authentication failures and inject malicious payloads into the error responses. The lack of a CVSS score and absence of known exploits in the wild suggest this vulnerability is newly disclosed and may not yet be actively exploited. However, the presence of XSS in an authentication context is a significant security concern, especially for enterprise environments that rely on Netwrix Directory Manager for identity and access management. The vulnerability affects versions before 11.1.25162.02, indicating that patched versions are available or forthcoming, though no direct patch links are provided in the data. The vulnerability was reserved and published in mid-2025, reflecting recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54392 can be substantial, particularly for those using Netwrix Directory Manager to manage Active Directory and identity governance. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of administrative users or help desk personnel who interact with authentication error messages, potentially leading to session hijacking or unauthorized access to sensitive identity management functions. This could compromise the integrity of user account management, leading to privilege escalation or unauthorized modifications to directory data. Additionally, exploitation could facilitate phishing or social engineering attacks by injecting deceptive content into authentication workflows. Given the critical role of identity management in securing enterprise IT environments, this vulnerability could undermine trust in authentication processes and expose organizations to further attacks. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability's nature and context warrant prompt attention to prevent exploitation. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government within Europe may face compliance and reputational risks if such vulnerabilities are exploited.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading Netwrix Directory Manager to version 11.1.25162.02 or later as soon as the patch is available to remediate this vulnerability. In the absence of an immediate patch, organizations should implement strict input validation and output encoding on authentication error messages to prevent script injection. Web application firewalls (WAFs) can be configured to detect and block typical XSS payloads targeting the authentication endpoints. Additionally, monitoring and logging authentication error events for unusual patterns may help detect attempted exploitation. Organizations should also educate administrators and help desk staff about the risks of interacting with unexpected or suspicious authentication error messages. Conducting regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on identity management systems can help identify similar vulnerabilities proactively. Finally, applying the principle of least privilege to accounts managing Netwrix Directory Manager reduces the potential impact of any successful exploitation.