CVE-2025-64757 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in the Astro web framework, specifically affecting its development server prior to version 5.14.3. Astro is a modern web framework used for building websites and applications, often leveraging Node.js environments. The vulnerability exists in the image optimization endpoint of the development server, where insufficient validation of file paths allows an attacker to manipulate the pathname parameter to access arbitrary local files on the host system. This occurs because the server does not properly limit pathnames to a restricted directory, enabling traversal outside intended directories (CWE-22 and CWE-23). Exploitation requires the attacker to interact with the development server remotely, but no authentication is needed. The attacker can read any image file accessible to the Node.js process, potentially exposing sensitive information stored locally during development. The vulnerability does not impact production deployments directly, as it is limited to the development server environment. The issue has been addressed and patched in Astro version 5.14.3, which enforces proper pathname restrictions to prevent traversal attacks. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 3.5, reflecting low severity due to limited impact scope and required user interaction. No known exploits have been reported in the wild to date.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-64757 lies in the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files within development environments using vulnerable versions of Astro. While the vulnerability does not affect production systems directly, leaked local files could include source code, configuration files, or other sensitive assets that might aid attackers in further exploitation or intellectual property theft. Organizations with active web development teams using Node.js and Astro frameworks are at risk if development servers are exposed to untrusted networks or the internet. This could lead to reputational damage, compliance issues related to data protection laws such as GDPR, and increased attack surface for subsequent attacks. However, the limited scope and requirement for user interaction reduce the overall risk. The vulnerability is less likely to cause direct service disruption or integrity compromise but could facilitate information gathering for more severe attacks.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should immediately upgrade all Astro development environments to version 5.14.3 or later, where the path traversal flaw is patched. Development servers should be isolated from public or untrusted networks, ideally accessible only via internal VPNs or secure tunnels. Implement strict network access controls and firewall rules to restrict inbound traffic to development servers. Regularly audit development environments for exposure and ensure that sensitive files are not unnecessarily stored in accessible directories. Employ runtime monitoring to detect unusual file access patterns on development hosts. Educate developers about the risks of exposing development servers and enforce best practices for secure development environment configuration. Additionally, consider containerizing development environments to limit filesystem exposure and applying principle of least privilege to Node.js processes to minimize accessible files.