CVE-2025-8048 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path) affecting OpenText Flipper version 3.1.2. The flaw allows an attacker to perform a path traversal attack by submitting a stored local file path, which the application then uses to retrieve and serve files from the underlying system. Specifically, an attacker can manipulate the document ID parameter to specify arbitrary file paths, enabling unauthorized download of local files. This vulnerability does not require authentication or privileges, but does require user interaction (e.g., submitting a specially crafted request). The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.3 (medium severity), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed, and limited impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability primarily threatens confidentiality by exposing sensitive files stored on the server and can also impact integrity if attackers access configuration or code files. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be addressed promptly. The root cause lies in insufficient validation and sanitization of file path inputs, allowing external control over file retrieval paths.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk of unauthorized data disclosure, especially for entities handling sensitive or regulated information such as financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies. Exposure of internal files could lead to leakage of confidential documents, intellectual property, or credentials, potentially facilitating further attacks or compliance violations under GDPR. The ability to download arbitrary files without authentication increases the attack surface and could undermine trust in document management workflows. Operational disruption is less likely but cannot be ruled out if critical system files are accessed or modified indirectly. The medium severity rating indicates moderate risk, but the ease of exploitation and lack of required privileges elevate the urgency for organizations using OpenText Flipper 3.1.2 to implement mitigations. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense.

European organizations should immediately assess their deployment of OpenText Flipper version 3.1.2 and plan for an upgrade or patch once available from the vendor. In the interim, implement strict input validation and sanitization on all file path parameters to prevent path traversal sequences (e.g., ../). Employ application-layer access controls to restrict file downloads only to authorized users and approved document IDs. Configure web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns. Monitor logs for unusual file access requests or downloads that deviate from normal usage patterns. Limit the exposure of sensitive files on the server by enforcing least privilege on file system permissions. Conduct internal penetration testing to verify the effectiveness of mitigations. Additionally, educate users about the risk of interacting with untrusted links or documents that could trigger exploitation attempts. Maintain an incident response plan to quickly address any detected exploitation.