CVE-2025-57996 is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79, affecting the matthewordie Buckets application up to version 0.3.9. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, allowing malicious scripts to be stored and subsequently executed in the context of users' browsers when they access affected pages. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. The vector string (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:L) shows that the attack can be performed remotely over the network (AV:N) with low attack complexity (AC:L), but requires the attacker to have some privileges (PR:L) and user interaction (UI:R). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. The impact affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a limited extent (C:L/I:L/A:L). Stored XSS vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because malicious payloads persist on the server and can affect multiple users, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or execution of arbitrary actions on behalf of victims. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the presence of this vulnerability in a web application that manages user data or interactions could be leveraged by attackers to compromise user trust and system integrity. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting increases the urgency for organizations using Buckets to implement interim mitigations.

For European organizations using matthewordie Buckets, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, session hijacking, or unauthorized actions performed under the guise of legitimate users. Given that Buckets is a web-based application, exploitation could affect any user interacting with the system, potentially exposing personal data protected under GDPR. The compromise of user accounts or data integrity could result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. Additionally, the scope change indicated in the CVSS vector suggests that exploitation could impact components beyond the immediate application, possibly affecting integrated systems or services. Organizations in sectors with high regulatory scrutiny, such as finance, healthcare, or public services, may face amplified consequences. Although exploitation requires some privileges and user interaction, social engineering or insider threats could facilitate attacks. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the medium severity rating underscores the need for timely action.

1. Apply patches or updates from the vendor as soon as they become available. Monitor matthewordie’s official channels for security advisories. 2. Implement strict input validation and output encoding on all user-supplied data to prevent script injection, especially in areas where data is stored and later rendered in web pages. 3. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts in browsers. 4. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on XSS vulnerabilities within the Buckets application and any integrated systems. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of social engineering and phishing that could facilitate exploitation requiring user interaction. 6. Use web application firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block common XSS payloads targeting the Buckets application. 7. Limit user privileges to the minimum necessary to reduce the risk posed by attackers needing low privileges to exploit the vulnerability. 8. Monitor logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts, such as unexpected script execution or anomalous user behavior.