CVE-2025-13256 identifies a SQL injection vulnerability in the Advanced Library Management System (ALMS) version 1.0 developed by projectworlds. The vulnerability resides in the /borrow.php script where the roll_number parameter is improperly sanitized, allowing an attacker to inject malicious SQL code. This injection flaw can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction, enabling attackers to manipulate backend database queries. Potential consequences include unauthorized retrieval, modification, or deletion of sensitive data such as user records, borrowing histories, or system configurations. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.3, reflecting medium severity, with low complexity and no privileges required for exploitation. While no active exploitation has been reported, the public availability of the exploit code increases the risk of attacks. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system’s data, posing a significant threat to organizations relying on this software for managing library operations. The lack of vendor patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate mitigation efforts by administrators.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions, public libraries, and research centers using the Advanced Library Management System 1.0, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive personal data such as student or patron records. Data integrity may be compromised through unauthorized modifications, potentially disrupting library operations and trustworthiness of records. Availability could also be affected if attackers execute destructive SQL commands. Such breaches could result in regulatory non-compliance under GDPR, leading to legal and financial repercussions. The public availability of exploit code increases the likelihood of opportunistic attacks, especially targeting institutions with limited cybersecurity resources. Additionally, reputational damage and operational downtime could impact service delivery to users. The medium severity score suggests a moderate but tangible risk that requires prompt attention to avoid escalation.

Organizations should immediately implement input validation and sanitization on the roll_number parameter to prevent injection of malicious SQL code. Employing parameterized queries or prepared statements is critical to eliminate direct concatenation of user input into SQL commands. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls (WAFs) can help detect and block SQL injection attempts targeting /borrow.php. Monitoring and logging database queries for anomalies will aid in early detection of exploitation attempts. Since no official patches are currently available, organizations should consider isolating or restricting access to the affected system until remediation is applied. Regular security assessments and code reviews of the ALMS software should be conducted to identify and fix similar vulnerabilities. Once vendor patches or updates are released, prompt application is essential. Additionally, educating staff about the risks and signs of exploitation can improve incident response readiness.