CVE-2025-60242 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in Anatoly's Download Counter software, affecting versions up to and including 1.4. The vulnerability arises from improper limitation of pathname inputs, allowing attackers to traverse directories beyond the intended restricted directory. By crafting malicious requests that manipulate file path parameters, an unauthenticated remote attacker can access arbitrary files on the server hosting the Download Counter application. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, including configuration files, credentials, or other critical data stored on the system. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.5 reflects the high impact on confidentiality (complete loss), low impact on integrity (limited modification potential), and no impact on availability. The attack vector is network-based, requiring no privileges or user interaction, but the complexity is rated high due to the need for precise path manipulation. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered exploitable. The scope is changed (S:C), indicating that exploitation could affect resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Anatoly Download Counter is used to track or manage downloads, as attackers could leverage this flaw to extract sensitive files from the underlying system. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate compensating controls to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, the primary impact is the potential exposure of sensitive files and data due to unauthorized file access. This can lead to confidentiality breaches involving intellectual property, customer data, or internal configurations, which may result in regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), reputational damage, and financial loss. Since the vulnerability does not affect availability or integrity significantly, service disruption or data tampering risks are minimal. However, the ability to access sensitive files without authentication makes this a critical privacy and security concern. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on Anatoly Download Counter for download tracking or analytics are particularly vulnerable. The cross-border nature of cyber threats in Europe means that attackers could exploit this vulnerability remotely from anywhere, increasing the risk profile. Additionally, the high complexity of exploitation may limit widespread attacks but does not eliminate targeted attacks against high-value targets.

1. Monitor Anatoly's official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-60242 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, implement strict input validation and sanitization on all file path parameters to prevent directory traversal sequences (e.g., ../). 3. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules specifically designed to detect and block path traversal attempts targeting the Download Counter endpoints. 4. Restrict file system permissions for the application user to the minimum necessary, ensuring it cannot access sensitive directories or files outside the intended scope. 5. Conduct thorough code reviews and penetration testing focused on file handling routines within the Download Counter application. 6. Monitor logs for unusual file access patterns or errors indicative of traversal attempts. 7. Segment and isolate servers running Anatoly Download Counter to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 8. Educate IT and security teams about this vulnerability and the importance of rapid response to path traversal threats.