CVE-2025-11426 is a vulnerability identified in projectworlds Advanced Library Management System version 1.0, specifically in the /edit_book.php endpoint. The flaw arises from improper validation of the 'image' parameter, which allows an attacker to perform unrestricted file uploads remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction. This means an attacker can upload arbitrary files, including potentially malicious scripts or executables, to the server hosting the application. The vulnerability could lead to remote code execution, server compromise, data tampering, or defacement. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:L - low privileges required), no user interaction (UI:N), and low impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (VC:L, VI:L, VA:L). Although the impact is rated low on CIA metrics individually, the ability to upload arbitrary files can be leveraged for more severe attacks. No official patches or fixes have been released yet, and while no exploits are confirmed in the wild, public exploit code availability increases the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability affects only version 1.0 of the product, which is likely deployed in library and educational environments. The lack of secure file upload controls and absence of content-type or extension validation are the root causes. This vulnerability highlights the need for secure coding practices around file handling in web applications.

For European organizations, especially those in the education and public library sectors using projectworlds Advanced Library Management System 1.0, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, defacement of library portals, or full server compromise. This could disrupt library services, impact user privacy, and damage organizational reputation. Given the public availability of exploit code, the likelihood of attacks targeting these systems is elevated. The impact extends to confidentiality (exposure of sensitive patron data), integrity (modification or deletion of library records), and availability (service disruption). Additionally, compromised systems could be used as pivot points for broader network intrusions within institutions. The medium CVSS score reflects moderate risk, but the real-world impact could escalate if attackers chain this vulnerability with others. European organizations may face regulatory scrutiny under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Therefore, timely mitigation is critical to prevent operational and compliance risks.

1. Immediately implement strict server-side validation for file uploads, including checking file extensions, MIME types, and file content signatures to ensure only legitimate image files are accepted. 2. Employ allowlists for accepted file types and reject all others. 3. Disable direct execution permissions on upload directories to prevent execution of uploaded scripts. 4. Use randomized file names and store uploads outside the web root to reduce exposure. 5. Implement authentication and authorization checks to restrict upload functionality to trusted users only. 6. Monitor web server logs and application logs for suspicious upload attempts or anomalous file types. 7. Apply web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block malicious file uploads. 8. Regularly update and patch the Advanced Library Management System once vendor fixes are released. 9. Conduct security audits and penetration tests focusing on file upload functionalities. 10. Educate system administrators and developers on secure file handling best practices to prevent similar issues in future versions.