Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities

CVE-2025-65238: Critical USSD Gateway Vulnerability Exposes Sensitive User Data

Overview

CVE-2025-65238 describes a broken access control vulnerability discovered in OpenCode Systems USSD Gateway OC Release: 5 Version 6.13.11. This flaw allows attackers with low-level privileges to bypass intended access restrictions within the `getSubUsersByProvider` function, potentially leading to the unauthorized disclosure of user records and sensitive information.

Technical Details

The vulnerability resides within the `getSubUsersByProvider` function of the USSD Gateway. Due to insufficient access control checks, an attacker with minimal privileges can manipulate requests to access and dump user records belonging to other users or providers. This bypass leverages the flawed authorization logic within the specified function. The affected version is OpenCode Systems USSD Gateway OC Release: 5 Version 6.13.11.

CVSS Analysis

As per the reported information, a CVSS score has not yet been assigned to CVE-2025-65238. However, considering the potential for sensitive data exposure, the vulnerability should be considered a high-severity issue until a formal CVSS score is calculated. A successful exploit could result in significant confidentiality breaches.

Possible Impact

The exploitation of CVE-2025-65238 could have significant consequences:

  • Data Breach: Attackers can gain access to sensitive user data, including phone numbers, account details, and potentially other personally identifiable information (PII).
  • Privacy Violations: Unauthorized access to user records directly violates user privacy and can lead to legal and regulatory repercussions.
  • Fraud and Abuse: Exposed user data can be leveraged for fraudulent activities, such as identity theft, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access to other services.
  • Reputational Damage: A successful exploit and subsequent data breach can severely damage the reputation of the organization using the vulnerable USSD Gateway.

Mitigation or Patch Steps

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2025-65238, the following steps are recommended:

  • Apply the Patch: Contact OpenCode Systems to obtain and apply the official patch or upgrade to a version of the USSD Gateway where this vulnerability has been addressed. This is the primary and most effective solution.
  • Implement Access Control Hardening: Review and reinforce access control mechanisms within the `getSubUsersByProvider` function. Ensure that users can only access data they are explicitly authorized to view.
  • Input Validation: Implement robust input validation to prevent attackers from manipulating requests to bypass access controls.
  • Least Privilege Principle: Adhere to the principle of least privilege, granting users only the minimum necessary permissions to perform their tasks.
  • Monitoring and Logging: Implement comprehensive monitoring and logging to detect and respond to suspicious activity. Monitor access attempts to the `getSubUsersByProvider` function.

References

Cybersecurity specialist and founder of Gowri Shankar Infosec - a professional blog dedicated to sharing actionable insights on cybersecurity, data protection, server administration, and compliance frameworks including SOC 2, PCI DSS, and GDPR.

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