Description
mailcow: dockerized is an open source groupware/email suite based on docker. A Server-Side Template Injection (SSTI) vulnerability exists in versions prior to 2025-07 in the notification template system used by mailcow for sending quota and quarantine alerts. The template rendering engine allows template expressions that may be abused to execute code in certain contexts. The issue requires admin-level access to mailcow UI to configure templates, which are automatically rendered during normal system operation. Version 2025-07 contains a patch for the issue.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-21774
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability EUVD-2025-21774 affects the mailcow: dockerized open-source groupware/email suite. It is classified as a Server-Side Template Injection (SSTI) vulnerability in the notification template system used for sending quota and quarantine alerts. The CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) base score of 9.1 indicates a critical severity level. The CVSS vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H breaks down as follows:
- AV:N - Attack Vector: Network
- AC:L - Attack Complexity: Low
- PR:H - Privileges Required: High
- UI:N - User Interaction: None
- S:C - Scope: Changed
- C:H - Confidentiality: High
- I:H - Integrity: High
- A:H - Availability: High
This score reflects the potential for significant impact if exploited, despite requiring high privileges.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vector involves an authenticated user with admin-level access to the mailcow UI. The vulnerability can be exploited by configuring malicious template expressions in the notification templates. These templates are automatically rendered during normal system operation, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Exploitation Methods:
- Template Injection: An attacker with admin access can inject malicious code into the template expressions.
- Code Execution: The injected code can be executed in the context of the server, leading to unauthorized actions such as data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within the network.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects all versions of mailcow: dockerized prior to version 2025-07. Organizations using these versions are at risk and should prioritize updating to the patched version.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update Software: Upgrade to mailcow: dockerized version 2025-07 or later, which includes the patch for this vulnerability.
- Access Control: Restrict admin-level access to the mailcow UI to trusted personnel only.
- Monitoring: Implement monitoring and logging for unusual activities related to template configuration and rendering.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
- Training: Provide training for administrators on secure configuration practices and the risks associated with SSTI vulnerabilities.
- Patch Management: Establish a robust patch management process to ensure timely updates and patches are applied.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations using mailcow: dockerized, particularly those in the European Union. Given the critical nature of email and groupware services, a successful exploit could lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and potential violations of GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) if sensitive data is compromised.
Regulatory Implications:
- GDPR Compliance: Organizations must ensure they comply with GDPR by protecting personal data and reporting breaches within 72 hours.
- Cybersecurity Directives: Adherence to EU cybersecurity directives and guidelines is crucial to mitigate risks and maintain compliance.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- CVE ID: CVE-2025-53909
- Affected Component: Notification template system
- Exploit Condition: Admin-level access required to configure templates
- Patch Information: Fixed in version 2025-07
References:
- GitHub Advisory: GHSA-8p7g-6cjj-wr9m
- Commit Reference: 8c5f6c03214a4b2bdbf3c78932f860eee949012b
Mitigation Steps:
- Identify Affected Systems: Use asset management tools to identify systems running vulnerable versions of mailcow: dockerized.
- Apply Patch: Upgrade to version 2025-07 or later.
- Review Access Controls: Ensure that only authorized personnel have admin-level access to the mailcow UI.
- Implement Monitoring: Deploy monitoring tools to detect and alert on suspicious activities related to template configuration and rendering.
- Conduct Security Audits: Regularly audit the configuration and security posture of mailcow: dockerized deployments.
By following these steps, organizations can effectively mitigate the risks associated with EUVD-2025-21774 and enhance their overall cybersecurity posture.