CVE-2025-6409 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in version 1.1 of the PHPGurukul Art Gallery Management System, specifically within the /admin/forgot-password.php script. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization or validation of the 'email' parameter, which is directly incorporated into SQL queries without adequate escaping or parameterization. This flaw allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to inject arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating the 'email' input, potentially leading to unauthorized access to the backend database. Exploitation does not require any user interaction or prior authentication, and the attack can be launched remotely over the network. The vulnerability has been publicly disclosed, increasing the risk of exploitation, although no known active exploits have been reported in the wild to date. The CVSS v4.0 base score is 6.9, categorized as medium severity, reflecting the ease of exploitation (low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction required) but limited impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (each rated low). The vulnerability could allow attackers to extract sensitive data, modify or delete records, or disrupt application functionality depending on the database permissions and schema. Since the affected product is a niche Art Gallery Management System, the exposure is limited to organizations using this specific software version. However, given the critical nature of SQL injection vulnerabilities generally, this issue warrants prompt attention.

For European organizations utilizing PHPGurukul Art Gallery Management System 1.1, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized data disclosure, data manipulation, and potential service disruption. Art galleries and cultural institutions often manage sensitive customer information, including personal details and payment data, which could be compromised. The SQL injection could also be leveraged to escalate attacks within the network if database credentials are exposed or if the database server has broader access. Although the CVSS score indicates medium severity, the actual impact could be higher if the database contains critical or regulated data subject to GDPR. Additionally, reputational damage and regulatory penalties could result from data breaches. Since the exploit requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, any exposed installations accessible via the internet are at risk. The lack of known active exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk, especially as proof-of-concept code may become available following public disclosure.

1. Immediate upgrade or patching: Organizations should verify if PHPGurukul has released an official patch or newer version addressing this vulnerability and apply it promptly. 2. Input validation and parameterized queries: If patching is not immediately possible, administrators or developers should implement strict input validation on the 'email' parameter and refactor the code to use prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection. 3. Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy or update WAF rules to detect and block SQL injection attempts targeting the /admin/forgot-password.php endpoint, focusing on suspicious payloads in the 'email' parameter. 4. Network segmentation and access control: Restrict external access to the administration interface to trusted IP addresses or VPN users to reduce exposure. 5. Monitoring and logging: Enable detailed logging of web application requests and database queries to detect anomalous activities indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Incident response readiness: Prepare to respond to potential breaches by backing up data securely and having a plan for forensic analysis and notification in case of compromise. 7. Vendor engagement: Engage with PHPGurukul support or community to obtain updates and share threat intelligence.