CVE-2025-6295 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in version 1.0 of the code-projects Hostel Management System, specifically within the /allocated_rooms.php file. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization of the 'search_box' parameter, which is susceptible to malicious input manipulation. An attacker can remotely exploit this flaw without any authentication or user interaction, by crafting specially designed input to the 'search_box' argument. This allows the attacker to inject arbitrary SQL commands that the backend database executes. The consequences of successful exploitation include unauthorized data access, data modification, or deletion, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the hostel management system's data. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 6.9 (medium severity), reflecting the ease of exploitation (network vector, no privileges or user interaction required) but limited impact scope (low to medium impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability). Although no public exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability details have been disclosed publicly, increasing the risk of exploitation attempts. The lack of patches or mitigation links indicates that users of version 1.0 remain vulnerable until a fix is released or alternative mitigations are applied. Given the nature of the system, which likely manages sensitive personal and booking data for hostels, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to data privacy and operational continuity.

For European organizations, particularly those managing hostel accommodations, student housing, or similar lodging services using the affected Hostel Management System, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of personal data, including guest identities, booking details, and payment information. This exposure risks violating GDPR regulations, potentially resulting in legal penalties and reputational damage. Furthermore, attackers could alter or delete booking records, causing operational disruptions and financial losses. The remote and unauthenticated nature of the exploit increases the likelihood of attacks, especially in environments where the system is exposed to the internet without adequate network segmentation or firewall protections. The medium severity score suggests that while the impact is not catastrophic, the potential for data breaches and service interruptions is significant enough to warrant immediate attention. Organizations relying on this software should consider the threat serious, especially given the public disclosure of the vulnerability.

1. Immediate mitigation should include restricting external access to the Hostel Management System, ideally limiting it to trusted internal networks or VPNs to reduce exposure. 2. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules specifically designed to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting the 'search_box' parameter in /allocated_rooms.php. 3. Conduct a thorough code review and apply input validation and parameterized queries or prepared statements to sanitize all user inputs, especially the 'search_box' parameter. 4. If possible, upgrade to a patched version once available or apply vendor-provided patches promptly. 5. Monitor logs for suspicious query patterns or repeated failed attempts that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6. As a temporary workaround, disable or restrict the functionality relying on the vulnerable parameter if feasible. 7. Educate IT and security teams about this vulnerability and ensure incident response plans include steps to handle potential exploitation. 8. Perform regular backups and ensure recovery procedures are tested to mitigate data loss risks from potential attacks.