Overview
CVE-2025-48986 describes an authorization bypass vulnerability affecting Revive Adserver versions 5.5.2 and 6.0.1 and earlier. This vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to modify the email address of other users and potentially gain full control of their accounts by leveraging the password reset functionality.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient authorization checks when handling user profile updates. Specifically, an authenticated user can manipulate requests to change the email address associated with another user’s account. After successfully changing the email, the attacker can then trigger the “forgot password” functionality. A password reset link is sent to the attacker-controlled email address, enabling them to set a new password and effectively take over the targeted account.
The vulnerable endpoint likely failed to properly validate the target user ID against the currently authenticated user’s permissions, allowing for unauthorized modification of sensitive account information.
The affected versions are: Revive Adserver 5.5.2 and 6.0.1 and all prior versions.
CVSS Analysis
As of the publication of this article, the CVSS score for CVE-2025-48986 is not yet available (N/A). However, given the potential for full account takeover, this vulnerability should be considered a high severity issue. A complete account takeover is a significant risk to user data and system integrity.
Once the score is available, it will be added here.
Possible Impact
- Account Takeover: Attackers can gain complete control over targeted user accounts.
- Data Breach: Compromised accounts can be used to access and exfiltrate sensitive data stored within the Revive Adserver platform.
- Malicious Campaigns: Attackers can use compromised accounts to launch malicious advertising campaigns, potentially spreading malware or phishing attacks.
- Reputation Damage: Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to significant reputational damage for organizations using vulnerable Revive Adserver instances.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
- Upgrade Revive Adserver: The primary mitigation step is to upgrade to a patched version of Revive Adserver that addresses this vulnerability. Check the official Revive Adserver website for the latest updates.
- Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) Rules: Consider implementing WAF rules to detect and block suspicious requests that attempt to exploit this vulnerability.
- Review User Permissions: Regularly review user permissions and ensure that users only have the necessary access privileges.
- Monitor Logs: Monitor application logs for any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized attempts to modify user profiles or trigger password reset requests.
