CVE-2025-57819 is a critical SQL Injection vulnerability affecting FreePBX versions 15, 16, and 17 prior to 15.0.66, 16.0.89, and 17.0.3 respectively. FreePBX is an open-source web-based graphical user interface widely used for managing Asterisk PBX systems. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands within the security-reporting component, allowing unauthenticated attackers to inject malicious SQL queries. This flaw enables attackers to bypass authentication controls, gain unauthorized access to the FreePBX Administrator interface, and perform arbitrary database manipulation. The impact extends beyond data compromise to potential remote code execution on the underlying system, significantly increasing the threat severity. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 (SQL Injection) and CWE-288 (Authentication Bypass Using an Alternate Path or Channel), highlighting both the injection vector and the bypass of authentication mechanisms. The CVSS 4.0 score is 10.0 (critical), reflecting the vulnerability’s network attack vector, no required privileges or user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild yet, the ease of exploitation and the critical nature of the flaw make it a prime target for attackers. The vulnerability has been addressed in the specified patched versions, and users are strongly advised to upgrade immediately to mitigate risks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-57819 is substantial, especially for enterprises and service providers relying on FreePBX for telephony infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the PBX system, enabling attackers to manipulate call routing, intercept or redirect calls, exfiltrate sensitive call data, and disrupt communication services. This can result in significant operational downtime, financial loss, and reputational damage. Additionally, remote code execution capabilities may allow attackers to pivot into internal networks, escalating privileges and compromising other critical systems. Given the widespread adoption of FreePBX in Europe’s telecommunications and enterprise sectors, the vulnerability poses a direct threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of communications infrastructure. Regulatory compliance risks are also heightened, as breaches involving communication systems may violate GDPR and other data protection laws, leading to legal and financial penalties.

European organizations should take immediate and specific actions beyond generic patching advice: 1) Prioritize upgrading FreePBX installations to versions 15.0.66, 16.0.89, or 17.0.3 or later to eliminate the vulnerability. 2) Conduct thorough audits of FreePBX logs and database integrity to detect any signs of exploitation or unauthorized access prior to patching. 3) Implement network segmentation to isolate PBX systems from general IT infrastructure, limiting lateral movement opportunities. 4) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection attempts targeting FreePBX endpoints. 5) Enforce strict access controls and multi-factor authentication for administrative interfaces to reduce risk from other attack vectors. 6) Regularly monitor threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploits or indicators of compromise related to this CVE. 7) Develop and test incident response plans specifically addressing telephony system compromises to ensure rapid containment and recovery.