CVE-2025-6445 in ServiceStack
Summary
by MITRE • 06/25/2025
ServiceStack FindType Directory Traversal Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of ServiceStack. Interaction with this library is required to exploit this vulnerability but attack vectors may vary depending on the implementation.
The specific flaw exists within the implementation of the FindType method. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-25837.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2025
The CVE-2025-6445 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within ServiceStack's FindType method that enables remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability resides in the core functionality of ServiceStack, a popular .NET web service framework used extensively across enterprise applications. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied paths before they are processed in file system operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that bypasses normal path restrictions, allowing them to traverse directory structures and potentially access or execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it operates at the core library level, meaning any application utilizing ServiceStack's FindType functionality becomes potentially vulnerable to this attack vector.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal, which specifically addresses improper input validation of file paths that allows attackers to access files or directories outside the intended scope. The flaw manifests when the FindType method processes user-controllable input without adequate sanitization or validation checks, creating a pathway for malicious path manipulation. This allows attackers to construct paths that reference files or directories beyond the intended application boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current process. The vulnerability's exploitation requires interaction with the ServiceStack library itself, making it particularly dangerous for applications that rely heavily on dynamic type discovery and file system operations. The attack vector can vary significantly depending on how the library is implemented within specific applications, but the underlying flaw remains consistent across all affected versions.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-6445 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain persistent access to affected systems and potentially escalate privileges within the application environment. This vulnerability affects organizations that utilize ServiceStack in their web applications, particularly those that process user input through the FindType method or similar functionality. The attack surface is broad since ServiceStack is widely deployed across various enterprise applications, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from a threat landscape perspective. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of business operations, especially when applications are deployed in cloud environments or multi-tenant architectures. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network exposure is high.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-6445 should focus on immediate patching of affected ServiceStack versions, implementing robust input validation controls, and establishing proper access controls around file system operations. Organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of ServiceStack that address the directory traversal vulnerability in the FindType method. Additionally, implementing proper path validation mechanisms that sanitize user input before processing, using whitelisting approaches for allowed file paths, and restricting file system access permissions can significantly reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious file system access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's relationship to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation highlights the need for comprehensive security monitoring and response procedures. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components of their software stack.