CVE-2025-13565 identifies a security weakness in the password recovery mechanism of SourceCodester Inventory Management System version 1.0, specifically within the /model/user/resetPassword.php file. The vulnerability arises from improper handling or validation during the password reset process, which can be manipulated remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction. This allows an attacker to reset passwords of user accounts, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the system. The CVSS 4.0 score of 6.9 reflects a medium severity, with an attack vector of network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity by enabling unauthorized account takeover but does not affect availability or system control. No patches have been officially released yet, and no known exploits are observed in the wild, although exploit code is publicly available, increasing the risk of exploitation. The weakness could be exploited by attackers to compromise sensitive inventory data, disrupt business operations, or use the system as a foothold for further attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of inventory management data, which often includes sensitive business and financial information. Unauthorized access through password reset manipulation could lead to data theft, fraudulent transactions, or disruption of supply chain operations. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that rely on SourceCodester Inventory Management System 1.0 without robust security controls are particularly vulnerable. The attack requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, increasing the threat surface. Compromise of such systems could also lead to reputational damage and regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Additionally, attackers could leverage compromised accounts to move laterally within organizational networks, escalating the impact beyond the inventory system itself.

Given the absence of official patches, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the /model/user/resetPassword.php endpoint using network-level controls such as IP whitelisting or VPN requirements to limit exposure. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all user accounts to reduce the risk of unauthorized access even if password resets are manipulated. Conduct thorough logging and monitoring of password reset requests to detect abnormal patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. Review and harden the password recovery workflow by adding verification steps such as email or SMS confirmation codes. If possible, update or replace the affected software version with a vendor-provided patch once available. Additionally, educate users about phishing and social engineering risks that could compound this vulnerability. Regularly audit user accounts and reset credentials for critical accounts as a precaution.