CVE-2025-54475 is a high-severity SQL injection vulnerability affecting the JS Jobs component versions 1.3.2 through 1.4.4 for the Joomla content management system. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands (CWE-89), allowing low-privilege users to inject arbitrary SQL code. Exploitation does not require user interaction or elevated privileges beyond low-level access, making it relatively easy to exploit remotely over the network (AV:N, AC:L, PR:L, UI:N). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems with high scope and impact (VC:H, VI:H, VA:H). Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute unauthorized SQL commands, potentially extracting sensitive data, modifying or deleting database records, or escalating privileges within the Joomla environment. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the high CVSS score of 8.7 indicates a critical risk if exploited. The vulnerability affects a widely used Joomla plugin designed for job listing management, which is commonly deployed on websites requiring user-generated content and database interactions. Given the nature of Joomla’s popularity in Europe, especially among small and medium enterprises and public sector websites, this vulnerability poses a significant threat to organizations relying on this plugin for their web presence and recruitment functions.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be severe. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive personal data, including applicant information and internal business data stored within the JS Jobs plugin database. This could result in data breaches violating GDPR regulations, leading to legal penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, attackers could manipulate job listings or website content, undermining trust and operational continuity. The ability to execute arbitrary SQL commands also opens the door to further compromise of the Joomla CMS environment, potentially allowing attackers to pivot to other internal systems. Public sector entities, educational institutions, and SMEs that rely on Joomla and the JS Jobs component for recruitment and job posting are particularly at risk. The disruption or data loss caused by this vulnerability could impact hiring processes and organizational workflows, with cascading effects on business operations and service delivery.

Specific mitigation steps include: 1) Immediate upgrade or patching of the JS Jobs component to a version beyond 1.4.4 once a fix is released by the vendor. Since no patch links are currently available, organizations should monitor official Joomla and joomsky.com channels for updates. 2) In the interim, restrict access to the JS Jobs plugin functionality to trusted users only, applying strict access controls and network segmentation to limit exposure. 3) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules tailored to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting the JS Jobs endpoints. 4) Conduct thorough code reviews and penetration testing focusing on SQL injection vectors within the plugin if custom modifications exist. 5) Regularly audit database logs for suspicious queries indicative of injection attempts. 6) Employ principle of least privilege for database accounts used by Joomla to minimize potential damage. 7) Educate administrators on monitoring and incident response procedures specific to Joomla plugin vulnerabilities. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on immediate containment, proactive detection, and minimizing attack surface until official patches are available.