CVE-2025-61140 identifies a critical Prototype Pollution vulnerability in the jsonpath library version 1.1.1, specifically within the value function located in lib/index.js. Prototype Pollution occurs when an attacker can modify the prototype of a base object, which in JavaScript can lead to arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or data corruption. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject malicious properties into JavaScript objects without requiring authentication or user interaction, exploiting the way jsonpath processes input data. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network with low attack complexity and no privileges required, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it a critical risk for applications that rely on jsonpath for JSON data querying and manipulation. Although no patches or known exploits are currently documented, the severity and nature of the vulnerability necessitate urgent attention. CWE-1321 classifies this as a Prototype Pollution issue, a well-known attack vector in JavaScript ecosystems. Organizations using jsonpath 1.1.1 in their software stacks, especially in web applications, APIs, and microservices, are vulnerable to potential exploitation that could lead to full system compromise or data breaches.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-61140 is significant due to the widespread use of JavaScript and JSON processing in modern web applications and backend services. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, manipulation or corruption of application logic, and potential denial of service conditions. This can result in data breaches, service outages, and loss of customer trust, which are critical concerns under GDPR and other data protection regulations. The vulnerability's ability to affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously elevates the risk profile. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and government services, which heavily rely on secure data processing, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, the lack of authentication and user interaction requirements means attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely and at scale, increasing the likelihood of widespread impact across European digital infrastructure.

Immediate mitigation involves identifying and upgrading or patching the jsonpath library to a version that addresses the Prototype Pollution vulnerability once available. In the absence of an official patch, organizations should implement input validation and sanitization to prevent malicious payloads from reaching the vulnerable function. Employing runtime application self-protection (RASP) or web application firewalls (WAF) with rules targeting Prototype Pollution attack patterns can provide temporary defense. Developers should audit codebases for unsafe usage of jsonpath and refactor to safer alternatives or implement strict object property checks. Monitoring application logs for unusual prototype modifications and anomalous behavior can aid early detection. Additionally, organizations should incorporate dependency scanning tools into their CI/CD pipelines to detect vulnerable library versions proactively. Training developers on secure coding practices related to JavaScript object handling will reduce future risks.