CVE-2025-4498 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in version 1.0 of the code-projects Simple Bus Reservation System, specifically within the function a::install of the Install Bus component. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of the 'bus' argument, which allows an attacker to overwrite the stack memory by supplying crafted input. This type of vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, program crashes, or other undefined behavior. The attack vector is local host access with low privileges required, and no user interaction is necessary. The vulnerability has been publicly disclosed but no known exploits are currently observed in the wild. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 4.8, indicating a medium severity level, reflecting the local attack vector and limited scope of impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability does not require network access or elevated privileges, but the attacker must have local access to the system to exploit it. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing the risk for organizations using this software. Given the nature of the software—a bus reservation system—this vulnerability could impact operational continuity and data integrity if exploited.

For European organizations using the Simple Bus Reservation System 1.0, this vulnerability could disrupt transportation service operations by causing system crashes or enabling unauthorized code execution on affected systems. Although exploitation requires local access, insider threats or attackers who gain initial foothold on internal networks could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges or move laterally. The potential compromise of reservation data could affect customer privacy and trust, and operational downtime could lead to financial losses and reputational damage. Given the medium severity and local attack vector, the impact is more pronounced in organizations with weak internal access controls or insufficient endpoint security. Additionally, transportation and public service entities in Europe that rely on this software may face regulatory scrutiny under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

Organizations should immediately audit their use of the Simple Bus Reservation System 1.0 and restrict local access to trusted personnel only. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on systems running this software to detect suspicious local activities. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to prevent exploitation attempts. Since no patch is currently available, consider isolating affected systems from critical networks or migrating to alternative reservation systems with active security support. Conduct regular security training to raise awareness about insider threats and local exploitation risks. Additionally, implement system-level mitigations such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization (ASLR), and data execution prevention (DEP) where possible to reduce the risk of successful exploitation. Monitor vendor communications for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once released.