CVE-2025-56265 is an arbitrary file upload vulnerability identified in the Chat Trigger component of the N8N automation platform versions 1.95.3, 1.100.1, and 1.101.1. This vulnerability allows an attacker to upload a crafted HTML file, which can then be executed on the server hosting the N8N instance. The core issue stems from insufficient validation or sanitization of uploaded files within the Chat Trigger component, enabling attackers to bypass restrictions and place malicious files on the server. Once uploaded, these files can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability does not currently have a CVSS score and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. However, the ability to execute arbitrary code via file upload is a critical security concern, especially for automation platforms like N8N that often integrate with multiple systems and services. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements is not explicitly stated, but given the nature of file upload vulnerabilities, exploitation might require some level of access to the upload functionality, which could be exposed depending on deployment configurations.

For European organizations using N8N, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. N8N is widely used for workflow automation, integrating various business-critical applications and data sources. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, data breaches, disruption of automated processes, and lateral movement within corporate networks. This could impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and services. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government, which rely heavily on automation and data integration, could face operational disruptions and compliance violations under GDPR if personal data is compromised. The risk is heightened in cloud or publicly accessible deployments of N8N where attackers can reach the vulnerable component without stringent access controls.

1. Immediate patching: Organizations should monitor for official patches or updates from N8N addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly. 2. Access controls: Restrict access to the Chat Trigger component and file upload functionalities to trusted users and networks only, using network segmentation, VPNs, or firewall rules. 3. Input validation: Implement additional file validation and sanitization at the web server or proxy level to block potentially malicious file types, especially HTML or script files. 4. Monitoring and logging: Enable detailed logging of file uploads and monitor for unusual activity or unexpected file types. 5. Incident response readiness: Prepare to isolate affected systems and conduct forensic analysis if exploitation is suspected. 6. Configuration review: Disable or limit file upload features if not required, and review user permissions to minimize exposure. 7. Web application firewall (WAF): Deploy or update WAF rules to detect and block attempts to upload malicious files targeting this vulnerability.