Summary Points
1. A critical security flaw (CVE-2025-31324) in SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer has been confirmed to compromise multiple organizations, with over 7,500 servers still at risk.
2. The vulnerability, which allows unauthenticated file uploads, has been exploited to upload webshells and run malicious commands, primarily targeting the manufacturing sector.
3. Researchers have observed exploitation of systems dating back to March 27, indicating the threat may have been active for months.
4. SAP plans to release a permanent patch by the end of April, while an emergency patch was implemented on April 24 due to the vulnerability’s severity.
Exposing a Critical Vulnerability
A serious vulnerability in SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer has put numerous organizations at risk. This flaw, identified as CVE-2025-31324, scores a severe 10 on the vulnerability scale. It allows unauthorized file uploads through the metadata uploader component. Researchers discovered that over 7,500 SAP NetWeaver Application Servers remain exposed. Consequently, multiple organizations have already experienced breaches. Reliaquest pointed out that attackers uploaded malicious web shells in easily accessible directories. This action confirms that the threat is not hypothetical; it is occurring now.
Initially, experts suspected exploitation of an older vulnerability. However, they quickly realized the flaw was new and could impact current systems. The influence of this vulnerability extends beyond individual organizations; it spans across entire industries. Rapid7 reported that most affected customers are in the manufacturing sector. Furthermore, many of these installations are over ten years old. Such outdated software increases susceptibility to modern exploits, complicating the security landscape.
The Challenge of Timely Updates
While SAP NetWeaver provides essential business applications, updating these systems poses its own challenges. Many companies hesitate to take critical services offline, fearing operational disruptions. This reluctance creates a cycle of risk that is hard to break. Shadowserver’s report identified vulnerable IP addresses primarily located in the U.S., India, and Australia. Responses to these incidents have become widespread, with multiple security firms getting involved.
SAP acknowledged the vulnerability in early April and has since issued an emergency patch. Yet, the damage may already be done. The Visual Composer component may be present in up to 70% of Java systems. This statistic emphasizes the widespread adoption and potential impact of the vulnerability. As organizations navigate this intricate web of security and operational needs, vulnerability management must improve. Awareness and timely action are not just best practices; they are essential for safeguarding our increasingly interconnected business operations.
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