CVE-2025-67706 is a vulnerability identified in Esri ArcGIS Server, specifically affecting versions 11.5 and earlier, including 10.9.1, on both Windows and Linux platforms. The core issue is an unrestricted file upload vulnerability classified under CWE-434, where the server does not properly validate the type of files being uploaded. This flaw enables remote attackers to upload arbitrary files without authentication or user interaction. The improper validation means malicious actors could potentially upload executable scripts or other harmful files, which might be used to execute code, alter data, or disrupt services. However, the CVSS 3.1 vector indicates a high attack complexity (AC:H), meaning exploitation requires specific conditions or knowledge, and no privileges or user interaction are needed. The impact metrics show low confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts (C:L/I:L/A:L), suggesting that while the vulnerability can be exploited remotely, the damage scope is somewhat limited. No public exploits are known yet, and no patches have been released at the time of this report. The vulnerability affects critical GIS infrastructure, which is widely used in government, utilities, and environmental sectors for spatial data management and analysis. The lack of file type validation is a common security oversight that can lead to server compromise or data manipulation if exploited in conjunction with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-67706 could be significant in sectors relying heavily on GIS data and services, such as government agencies, urban planning, utilities, and environmental monitoring. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to upload malicious files that might lead to limited data exposure, unauthorized data modification, or service disruption. Although the immediate impact is rated low to medium, the vulnerability could serve as a foothold for more advanced attacks, especially if combined with other vulnerabilities or weak internal controls. Disruption of GIS services can affect critical decision-making processes and operational continuity. Additionally, regulatory compliance risks may arise if sensitive geographic or personal data is compromised. The medium severity rating suggests that while the threat is not critical, it should be addressed promptly to prevent escalation. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks.

1. Monitor Esri’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-67706 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict file upload permissions to trusted users only and limit upload functionality where possible. 3. Implement strict server-side validation of uploaded files, including checking file extensions, MIME types, and scanning for malicious content. 4. Employ network segmentation to isolate ArcGIS Server instances from sensitive internal networks to limit potential lateral movement. 5. Use Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious upload attempts. 6. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on file upload functionalities. 7. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect unusual upload activities promptly. 8. Educate administrators and users about the risks of arbitrary file uploads and enforce the principle of least privilege. 9. Consider deploying intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) tuned for GIS server environments. 10. Review and harden server configurations to minimize attack surface and disable unnecessary services.