CVE-2026-25648 in Traccar
Summary
by MITRE • 02/23/2026
Versions of the Traccar open-source GPS tracking system starting with 6.11.1 contain an issue in which authenticated users can execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of other users' browsers by uploading malicious SVG files as device images. The application accepts SVG file uploads without sanitization and serves them with the `image/svg+xml` Content-Type, allowing embedded JavaScript to execute when victims view the image. As of time of publication, it is unclear whether a fix is available.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-25648 affects the Traccar open-source GPS tracking system, specifically versions 6.11.1 and later, representing a critical server-side vulnerability that enables authenticated users to perform cross-site scripting attacks against other system users. This flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's file upload functionality, creating a persistent security weakness that can be exploited by malicious actors who have gained legitimate access to the system. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-434 category of Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is a well-documented weakness in web applications that allows attackers to upload files that can execute arbitrary code when accessed by other users. The attack vector specifically targets the device image upload feature, where SVG files are accepted without proper sanitization or validation of their contents, creating a direct pathway for JavaScript execution in the context of other users' browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent properties of SVG files, which can contain embedded JavaScript code that executes when rendered by web browsers. When an authenticated user uploads a malicious SVG file, the system stores the file and serves it with the correct Content-Type header of image/svg+xml, which instructs browsers to interpret the file as an image while still executing any embedded JavaScript code. This behavior creates a persistent cross-site scripting attack vector where victims who view the malicious image in the Traccar interface will have the embedded JavaScript executed in their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, data exfiltration, or further exploitation of the victim's privileges within the application. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access to the system, meaning that attackers who can obtain valid credentials can exploit this weakness without requiring additional reconnaissance or privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session manipulation, as it can enable attackers to escalate their privileges within the Traccar environment and potentially gain access to sensitive GPS tracking data, device configurations, and user information. The attack can be particularly damaging in enterprise environments where Traccar is used for fleet management, asset tracking, or security monitoring, as the compromised system could provide attackers with real-time location data and tracking information for vehicles, personnel, or assets. The vulnerability also creates a potential for supply chain attacks if the malicious SVG files are uploaded to shared or public instances of Traccar, affecting multiple organizations that rely on the same system. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.002 for Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, where the malicious payload is delivered through file uploads rather than email attachments, but still achieves the same objective of executing code in the victim's browser context.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive file validation and sanitization measures, including the removal or disabling of SVG file upload capabilities, or the implementation of strict content filtering that removes any JavaScript code from uploaded SVG files. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as Content Security Policy headers to prevent the execution of inline scripts, and regular security audits of uploaded files to detect and remove malicious content. The vulnerability highlights the importance of the principle of least privilege, ensuring that authenticated users have only the minimum necessary permissions to perform their required tasks, and implementing proper input validation at multiple layers of the application. Additionally, organizations should monitor for unusual file upload patterns and implement automated scanning of uploaded content for known malicious indicators. The lack of a known fix at the time of publication emphasizes the need for immediate defensive measures including temporary workarounds such as disabling SVG uploads, implementing strict file type validation, and conducting comprehensive security reviews of all user-uploaded content to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.