CVE-2025-11981 identifies a SQL Injection vulnerability in the WPSchoolPress plugin for WordPress, developed by jdsofttech, affecting all versions up to and including 2.2.23. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of special elements in the 'SCodes' parameter used in SQL commands. Specifically, the plugin fails to sufficiently escape or prepare the SQL query, allowing an authenticated attacker with administrator-level privileges to append arbitrary SQL queries. This can be exploited to extract sensitive information from the underlying database, such as user credentials, personal data, or configuration details. The vulnerability does not impact data integrity or availability, as it is limited to read-only data extraction. The CVSS v3.1 score is 4.9 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, but demands high privileges and no user interaction. No public exploits are currently known, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-89, indicating improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands. The issue highlights the importance of using parameterized queries or prepared statements and thorough input validation in WordPress plugins, especially those managing sensitive educational data.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions using the WPSchoolPress plugin, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive student and staff data stored in the database. Although exploitation requires administrator-level access, insider threats or compromised admin accounts could leverage this flaw to exfiltrate confidential information, potentially violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. The exposure of personal data could lead to reputational damage, regulatory fines, and loss of trust. Since the vulnerability does not affect data integrity or availability, it is less likely to cause operational disruption but still represents a significant confidentiality risk. The medium severity score reflects the balance between the required privileges and the potential data exposure. European schools and educational service providers relying on this plugin should consider the risk in the context of their user access controls and incident response capabilities.

1. Monitor the vendor’s official channels for an official patch or update to WPSchoolPress and apply it promptly once available. 2. Until a patch is released, restrict administrator access strictly to trusted personnel and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as MFA. 3. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the 'SCodes' parameter. 4. Conduct a thorough audit of current administrator accounts and revoke unnecessary privileges. 5. Review and enhance input validation and sanitization in the plugin’s code if custom modifications are possible, ensuring use of parameterized queries or prepared statements. 6. Monitor database logs for unusual query patterns indicative of SQL injection attempts. 7. Educate administrators about the risk and signs of exploitation to improve detection and response. 8. Consider isolating the plugin’s database access with least privilege principles to limit data exposure in case of exploitation.