CVE-2025-5213 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in version 1.0 of the projectworlds Responsive E-Learning System, specifically in the /admin/delete_file.php script. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization of the 'ID' parameter, which is used in SQL queries without adequate validation or parameterization. This flaw allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to inject malicious SQL code by manipulating the 'ID' argument, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion within the underlying database. The vulnerability does not require any user interaction or privileges, making it remotely exploitable over the network. Although the CVSS 4.0 base score is 6.9 (medium severity), the impact vector includes partial impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with no authentication or user interaction required. The vulnerability is publicly disclosed, but no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet. The lack of available patches or mitigation guidance from the vendor increases the risk for organizations using this software. Given that this e-learning system is likely used to manage educational content and user data, exploitation could lead to exposure of sensitive student or institutional information, disruption of e-learning services, or unauthorized administrative actions.

For European organizations, especially educational institutions and training providers using the projectworlds Responsive E-Learning System 1.0, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive personal data of students and staff, violating GDPR requirements and potentially resulting in regulatory penalties. Data integrity could be compromised, affecting the reliability of educational content and records. Availability impacts could disrupt online learning activities, causing operational downtime and reputational damage. Since the vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication, attackers could target these systems from anywhere, increasing the threat surface. The public disclosure of the vulnerability without available patches heightens the urgency for European entities to implement compensating controls to prevent exploitation. Additionally, educational institutions are often targeted by threat actors due to the valuable data they hold and their sometimes limited cybersecurity resources, making this vulnerability particularly concerning in the European context.

Given the absence of official patches, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the /admin/delete_file.php endpoint by IP whitelisting or VPN access to limit exposure to trusted administrators only. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting the 'ID' parameter. Conduct thorough input validation and sanitization at the application level, if source code access and modification are possible, by implementing parameterized queries or prepared statements. Monitor logs for unusual or suspicious requests to the vulnerable endpoint to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly back up databases and critical data to enable recovery in case of data manipulation or deletion. Educate administrative users on security best practices and the importance of reporting anomalies. Finally, maintain close communication with the vendor for any forthcoming patches or updates and plan for an upgrade or migration to a more secure platform if necessary.