CVE-2025-68115: Parse Server Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability via Unescaped Mustache Template Variables
Summary
CVE-2025-68115: Parse Server has a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability via Unescaped Mustache Template Variables. Affects parse-server across 2 version ranges.
< 8.6.1
>= 9.0.0, < 9.1.0-alpha.3
Fixed in 8.6.1 or 9.1.0-alpha.3, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- parse · Bitnami
The same CVE-2025-68115 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
Parse Server is an open-source backend platform that enables developers to build applications with a robust server-side infrastructure. It provides features such as data storage, user authentication, and real-time notifications, making it a popular choice for mobile and web applications. However, it has been identified to have a vulnerability that allows for Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks, particularly in its password reset and email verification HTML pages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability is a Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue that arises from unescaped Mustache template variables in Parse Server's HTML pages. This flaw allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into the web pages, which can be executed in the context of the user's browser. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to sensitive user data, session hijacking, and the spread of malware. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, which pertains to improper neutralization of input during web page generation.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 9.10.5 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install parse-server@9.10.5Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 8.6.18.6.1npm install parse-server@8.6.1 -
>= 9.0.0, < 9.1.0-alpha.39.1.0-alpha.3npm install parse-server@9.1.0-alpha.3
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no workarounds available for this vulnerability. It is strongly recommended to apply the patch as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerability in Parse Server poses a significant risk due to its potential for XSS attacks. Users are urged to update to the patched versions promptly to safeguard their applications. Regular monitoring and updates are essential to maintain security in open-source software.
See every vulnerability recorded for parse-server →
FAQ
XSS vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, potentially compromising their data and security.
You can check if your application is affected by using Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to use the Vulert playground without signup.
Consequences can include data theft, session hijacking, and the ability for attackers to perform actions on behalf of users without their consent.
Yes, after applying the patch, Parse Server should be safe from this specific XSS vulnerability. Regular updates and security practices are recommended.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 5.3, indicating a moderate level of severity.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for parse-server.
