CVE-2025-14621 identifies a SQL injection vulnerability in the code-projects Student File Management System version 1.0, specifically within the /admin/update_user.php endpoint. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the user_id parameter, which is directly incorporated into SQL queries. This flaw allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary SQL commands without requiring authentication or user interaction, enabling them to manipulate database queries. Potential consequences include unauthorized data disclosure, modification, or deletion of student records, and possibly escalation of privileges within the application. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 base score of 6.9, reflecting its medium severity, with attack vector being network-based, no privileges or user interaction required, and partial impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no active exploits have been reported in the wild, publicly available exploit code increases the risk of exploitation by opportunistic attackers. The affected product is used primarily in educational environments to manage student files, making the integrity and confidentiality of data critical. The lack of patches or vendor advisories necessitates immediate mitigation efforts by administrators. The vulnerability's exploitation could disrupt educational operations and compromise sensitive personal data, emphasizing the need for rapid remediation.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions using the code-projects Student File Management System, this vulnerability poses significant risks. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to student records, including personal and academic information, violating data protection regulations such as GDPR. Data integrity could be compromised by unauthorized modifications, potentially affecting academic outcomes and institutional reputation. Availability of the system could also be impacted if attackers execute destructive SQL commands, disrupting administrative functions. The remote, unauthenticated nature of the exploit increases the likelihood of attacks originating from external threat actors, including cybercriminals or hacktivists targeting educational data. The presence of publicly available exploit code lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the urgency for European organizations to address this vulnerability. Failure to mitigate could result in regulatory penalties, loss of trust, and operational disruptions.

To mitigate CVE-2025-14621, organizations should immediately audit the /admin/update_user.php code to identify and remediate unsafe SQL query constructions involving the user_id parameter. Implement parameterized queries or prepared statements to ensure proper input handling and prevent SQL injection. Restrict access to the administrative interface by enforcing network-level controls such as VPNs, IP whitelisting, or firewall rules to limit exposure. Conduct thorough input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data. Monitor logs for suspicious database query patterns indicative of injection attempts. If vendor patches become available, prioritize their deployment. Additionally, consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with SQL injection detection capabilities as a temporary protective measure. Regularly back up databases to enable recovery in case of data tampering or loss. Educate administrators about the risks and signs of SQL injection attacks to enhance detection and response capabilities.