CVE-2025-64538 is a DOM-based Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) versions 6.5.23 and earlier. DOM-based XSS occurs when client-side scripts write untrusted data to the Document Object Model (DOM) without proper sanitization, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the victim’s browser. In this case, an attacker crafts a malicious web page or URL that injects harmful scripts into AEM-managed web pages. When a user visits this malicious page, the injected script executes with the same privileges as the legitimate site, potentially allowing session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity severely, as attackers can access sensitive session tokens and manipulate user interactions. The CVSS 3.1 score of 9.3 reflects a network attack vector with low complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. The scope is changed, indicating that the vulnerability affects components beyond the initially vulnerable module. Although no public exploits are reported yet, the critical severity and widespread use of AEM in enterprise content management make this a high-risk vulnerability. The lack of an official patch link suggests that remediation may be pending, emphasizing the need for interim mitigations.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial. Adobe Experience Manager is widely used by enterprises, government agencies, and large institutions for managing digital content and web experiences. Successful exploitation could lead to session hijacking, allowing attackers to impersonate legitimate users, access sensitive data, or perform unauthorized administrative actions. This compromises confidentiality and integrity of organizational data and user information. Given the critical CVSS score and the ability to execute arbitrary code in user browsers, the risk extends to potential lateral movement within networks if attackers leverage stolen credentials or session tokens. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to trigger exploitation, increasing the threat surface. Disruption of trust in digital services and potential regulatory consequences under GDPR for data breaches further elevate the impact for European entities.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official security advisories closely and apply patches immediately once released for AEM versions 6.5.23 and earlier. 2. Implement strict Content Security Policies (CSP) to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts and reduce the impact of injected code. 3. Conduct thorough input validation and sanitization on all user-controllable inputs within AEM-managed applications to prevent injection of malicious scripts. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules tuned to detect and block DOM-based XSS attack patterns targeting AEM. 5. Educate users and administrators about phishing risks and the importance of not clicking suspicious links, as exploitation requires user interaction. 6. Review and limit the use of client-side scripts that manipulate the DOM based on URL parameters or other untrusted sources. 7. Consider isolating critical AEM administrative interfaces behind VPNs or multi-factor authentication to reduce exposure. 8. Regularly audit AEM configurations and custom code for insecure DOM manipulations that could be exploited.