Critical Apache Vulnerability Exposed: Act Now!

Latest Critical Vulnerabilities: Apache and Salt Under the Microscope

This morning’s cybersecurity brief brings some significant vulnerabilities that have caught the attention of security experts. Notably, a directory traversal issue in Apache HTTP Server (CVE-2024-38824) is causing concern, with a flaw in the recv_file method allowing arbitrary files to be written to the master cache directory. With a severity rating of 9.6, this critical vulnerability reminds us how even the most established software can be a tempting target for attackers.

Apache HTTP Server File Write (CVE-2024-38824)

At the heart of the issue is a directory traversal vulnerability that could let hackers write malicious files into protected areas of the master cache. This breach, introduced through the misbehaviour of the recv_file method, could potentially destabilise system integrity. Timely patching and vigilant monitoring remain key defence strategies.

In parallel, two flaws affecting Salt, a configuration management and orchestration tool, have been reported:

Salt Vulnerabilities: Master Event Injection and Minion Authorization Bypass

The Salt Master flaw (CVE-2025-22239) allows an authorised minion to inject arbitrary events onto the master’s event bus, posing a high risk with a severity of 8.1. Similarly, the Salt Minion vulnerability (CVE-2025-22236) could enable an attacker with access to a minion key to bypass event bus authorisation, again with a high risk rating of 8.1. These issues reiterate the importance of robust key management and verifying the authenticity of connected devices.

Emerging Threats from Common Software and Devices

Further along the threat landscape, attention has also turned to vulnerabilities in several widely used platforms and hardware.

Apple’s Zero-Click Spyware Exploit

Apple has patched several zero-day flaws in its Messages app, which were exploited to deploy Paragon’s Graphite spyware. This particular exploit captured headlines after being used to target journalists and civil society groups, underlining the global menace posed by advanced spyware techniques.

Acer ControlCenter Remote Code Execution (CVE-2025-5491)

Acer’s ControlCenter has revealed a remote code execution vulnerability. Misconfigured Windows Named Pipes in the software allow remote users with minimal privileges to execute arbitrary code as NT AUTHORITY/SYSTEM, achieving an alarming privilege escalation with a severity of 8.8. Users are advised to review their security configurations and apply any available updates.

WordPress Plugin Privilege Escalation (CVE-2025-5288)

A vulnerability in the Custom API Generator for Cross Platform and Import Export in WP plugin could let unauthenticated attackers gain full Administrator privileges by posting a crafted JSON payload. Sporting a critical 9.8 rating, this flaw is a stark reminder for WordPress site administrators to ensure plugins are up-to-date and secure.

Weak Authentication and Device Exposure in Network Equipment

Recent vulnerabilities also indicate risks in network devices that could open up broader attack vectors, particularly in industrial or IoT settings.

SinoTrack Default Password (CVE-2025-5484)

SinoTrack devices come with a well-known default password that is not enforced to be changed upon setup. This oversight means that a malicious actor, using either physical access or by scraping public images (e.g., on eBay), could gain unauthorised access to the central management interface. With a high risk rating of 8.3, strengthening default authentication measures is essential.

Cisco Router Identifier Predictability (CVE-2025-5485)

Similarly, Cisco routers employ a predictable numbering system for their web management access. By simply adjusting numerical identifiers, a determined attacker could potentially target multiple devices. This ease of enumeration, rated at 8.6 in severity, calls for improved randomness and better access controls on device identifiers.

Additional Alerts: VMware, GitLab, Apache Log Service and More

The threat landscape today is crowded, and here are a few more vulnerabilities that merit close attention:

VMware vRealize Log Insight (CVE-2025-49199)

In VMware’s vRealize Log Insight, unsigned backup ZIP files present a risk. Attackers could discreetly modify a backup, re-upload it and disrupt services by rewriting configuration parameters—a vulnerability with a high rating of 8.8.

Apache Log Service Information Disclosure (CVE-2025-49181)

A missing authorisation check in the Apache Log Service enables unauthorised users to not only glean sensitive information but also modify log file settings. The exploit could lead to a Denial of Service (DoS) attack and is designated as high risk with a severity rating of 8.6.

Recent GitLab Vulnerabilities

A cluster of vulnerabilities affecting both GitLab Community and Enterprise Editions has been flagged for potentially allowing complete account takeovers. This risk emphasises the necessity of prompt updates and vigilance in code repository management.

Other news highlights include discussions on the evolving threat of phishing within the UK public sector, as Trend Micro research indicates a strong belief among IT leaders that a cyber-attack is a matter of time. Meanwhile, international concerns continue to surface—Belarusian hackers have even taken a jab at Kaspersky after a report detailed their alleged cyber offensives.

Keeping Your Security Measures Up to Date

Amid these technical vulnerabilities, a new TokenBreak Attack has been making waves by bypassing AI moderation with subtle single-character text changes, and the political sphere isn’t immune either, with calls for an investigative watchdog into Reform UK’s data requests. With so much activity, it’s a good time for businesses to reassess their compliance practices.

At Synergos Consultancy, we know that staying on top of the latest vulnerabilities isn’t just about patching software—it’s about maintaining robust compliance and risk management processes. Whether you’re looking to achieve ISO certifications, enhance your cybersecurity posture, or bolster your overall Health & Safety framework, our team in Huddersfield is here to guide you through each step.

Keeping informed on these emerging threats is the first step towards securing your digital world. Stay safe, remain vigilant, and consider how a partnership with trusted experts might help you navigate these choppy cybersecurity waters.