CVE-2025-41085 in Web Platform
Summary
by MITRE • 02/04/2026
Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability type in Apidog in the version 2.7.15, where SVG image uploads are not properly sanitized. This allows attackers to embed malicious scripts in SVG files by sending a POST request to '/api/v1/user-avatar', which are then stored on the server and executed in the context of any user accessing the compromised resource.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2026
The stored cross-site scripting vulnerability in Apidog version 2.7.15 represents a critical security flaw that undermines the application's integrity and user safety. This vulnerability specifically targets the image upload functionality, particularly when handling SVG files, and allows attackers to persist malicious code within the application's storage system. The flaw exists in the '/api/v1/user-avatar' endpoint which processes user avatar uploads without adequate input validation or sanitization of SVG content. When users upload SVG images through this endpoint, the application fails to properly sanitize the markup, enabling attackers to embed malicious scripts that will execute whenever the compromised avatar is displayed or accessed by other users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate content validation mechanisms within the file upload processing pipeline. SVG files, while commonly used for scalable graphics, present unique security challenges because they support embedded scripting capabilities through elements like script tags, event handlers, and external references. The application's failure to sanitize these potentially dangerous elements means that any SVG file uploaded through the user avatar endpoint can contain malicious code that executes in the context of authenticated users' browsers. This vulnerability is classified as a stored XSS attack because the malicious payload is permanently stored on the server and executed each time the compromised resource is accessed, rather than being reflected in a single request.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as it creates a persistent threat vector that can affect all users of the application. When an attacker successfully uploads a malicious SVG file, any user who views the compromised avatar will unknowingly execute the embedded malicious code in their browser context. This can lead to session theft, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the trust relationship between users and the application, as legitimate users expect avatar images to be safe content. Attackers can exploit this by uploading SVG files containing malicious JavaScript that can access cookies, local storage, or make authenticated requests on behalf of the user. The attack chain typically involves sending a crafted POST request to the vulnerable endpoint, which then stores the malicious SVG file, making it executable whenever any user accesses the compromised avatar.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and the ATT&CK framework's T1566.001 technique for initial access through spearphishing attachments. The remediation strategy requires implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization for all uploaded file types, particularly SVG files. This includes removing or neutralizing potentially dangerous elements such as script tags, event handlers, and external references from SVG content before storage. Organizations should also implement proper content type validation, file size limits, and MIME type checking to prevent the upload of malicious files. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and using secure file handling practices can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation. Regular security testing, including automated vulnerability scanning and manual penetration testing, should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues across the application's functionality.