CVE-2025-0296 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in version 1.0 of the code-projects Online Book Shop application. The vulnerability exists in the /booklist.php file, specifically involving the 'subcatid' parameter. An attacker can manipulate this parameter to inject malicious SQL code, potentially allowing unauthorized access to the backend database. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring user interaction or authentication, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.3 (medium severity), reflecting that while the attack vector is network-based and requires low attack complexity, it does require some privileges (PR:L) and has limited impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability affects an unknown part of the code handling the 'subcatid' argument, which likely filters or queries book categories or subcategories. Exploiting this flaw could allow attackers to retrieve, modify, or delete sensitive data stored in the database, such as user information, order details, or inventory data. Although no public exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability has been publicly disclosed, which may lead to future exploitation attempts. No patches or mitigations have been officially released yet, increasing the urgency for affected organizations to implement protective measures. The lack of CWE classification limits detailed understanding of the exact injection vector, but the general risk of SQL Injection remains significant given the potential for data compromise and service disruption.

For European organizations using code-projects Online Book Shop version 1.0, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk to the confidentiality and integrity of customer and transactional data. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized data disclosure, data manipulation, or even denial of service if database integrity is compromised. This can result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties under GDPR due to data breaches, and financial losses. Since the vulnerability allows remote exploitation without user interaction, attackers could automate attacks at scale, increasing the threat level. E-commerce platforms are high-value targets, and compromised customer data or transaction records could facilitate fraud or identity theft. Additionally, disruption of online sales services could impact business continuity. The medium CVSS score suggests moderate impact, but the critical nature of data handled by online shops elevates the practical risk. Organizations in Europe must consider the regulatory implications of any data breach and the potential for cross-border impact given the interconnected nature of e-commerce.

Given the absence of an official patch, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. These include: 1) Applying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with specific rules to detect and block SQL Injection attempts targeting the 'subcatid' parameter in /booklist.php. 2) Conducting thorough input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied parameters, especially 'subcatid', to ensure only expected data types and values are accepted. 3) Employing parameterized queries or prepared statements in the application code to prevent injection vectors. 4) Restricting database user privileges to the minimum necessary to limit the impact of any successful injection. 5) Monitoring application logs and database logs for unusual query patterns or error messages indicative of injection attempts. 6) Isolating the affected application environment and preparing for rapid patch deployment once an official fix is available. 7) Educating development and security teams about secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future releases. 8) Considering temporary removal or disabling of the vulnerable functionality if feasible until remediation is complete.