CVE-2025-9388 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Scada-LTS versions up to 2.7.8.1, specifically involving an unknown function within the watch_list.shtm file. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization or validation of the 'Name' argument, which an attacker can manipulate to inject malicious scripts. This flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser without requiring authentication, although user interaction is necessary to trigger the payload. The vulnerability is classified as a reflected or stored XSS, enabling attackers to potentially hijack user sessions, steal sensitive information, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.1 (medium severity), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed, and limited impact on confidentiality and integrity with no impact on availability. Although no public exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability has been publicly disclosed, increasing the risk of exploitation. Scada-LTS is an open-source SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system used for industrial control and monitoring, making this vulnerability particularly relevant for critical infrastructure environments that rely on it for operational technology (OT) management. The vulnerability’s exploitation could lead to unauthorized script execution within the SCADA web interface, potentially undermining operator trust, causing misinformation, or enabling further attacks within the industrial network.

For European organizations, especially those operating critical infrastructure such as energy grids, water treatment plants, manufacturing, and transportation systems that utilize Scada-LTS, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation could lead to session hijacking of control system operators, manipulation of displayed data, or injection of misleading information, which may disrupt operational decision-making. While the vulnerability does not directly impact system availability or cause direct control system compromise, the integrity and confidentiality of operator sessions and data could be compromised, potentially leading to indirect operational disruptions or facilitating more advanced attacks. Given the increasing integration of IT and OT environments in Europe, this XSS vulnerability could serve as an entry point for lateral movement or social engineering attacks targeting critical infrastructure. The medium severity rating suggests moderate risk, but the critical nature of SCADA systems in Europe elevates the importance of timely mitigation.

To mitigate CVE-2025-9388, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Immediately upgrade Scada-LTS to a patched version once available from the vendor or community, as no patch links are currently provided but monitoring for updates is critical. 2) Apply strict input validation and output encoding on the 'Name' parameter within watch_list.shtm or any user-controllable inputs in the SCADA web interface to prevent script injection. 3) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious payloads targeting the vulnerable parameter. 4) Restrict access to the SCADA web interface to trusted networks and users only, using network segmentation and VPNs to reduce exposure to remote attackers. 5) Educate operators and users to recognize phishing or suspicious links that could trigger XSS payloads. 6) Monitor web server logs and application behavior for unusual requests or anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. 7) Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts within the SCADA web interface. These targeted mitigations go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific vulnerable parameter and the operational context of SCADA systems.