CVE-2025-7189 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in version 1.0 of the code-projects Chat System, specifically within the /user/send_message.php file. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization or validation of the 'msg' parameter, which allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code remotely without requiring user interaction or prior authentication. This flaw enables an attacker to manipulate backend database queries, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, data modification, or disruption of service. Although the CVSS 4.0 score is rated medium at 5.3, this is due to limited scope and partial impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability does not require authentication (PR:L indicates low privileges, but the vector is network-based and no user interaction is needed), making exploitation feasible in exposed environments. No known exploits are currently active in the wild, and no official patches have been released yet. The vulnerability disclosure date is July 8, 2025, indicating recent discovery and public awareness. The lack of patch links suggests organizations using this chat system must urgently implement compensating controls to mitigate risk. SQL Injection vulnerabilities are critical in nature because they can lead to data breaches, privilege escalation, or complete system compromise if chained with other vulnerabilities. However, the limited CVSS score and lack of known exploits indicate the impact may be contained if mitigations are applied promptly.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends on the extent of deployment of the code-projects Chat System version 1.0 within their infrastructure. If used for internal or customer communications, exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, including personal data protected under GDPR, resulting in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Data integrity could be compromised, affecting business operations relying on accurate messaging data. Availability of the chat service could be disrupted, impacting communication workflows. Given the remote exploitability without authentication, attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain foothold in the network, potentially pivoting to other critical systems. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is serious, it may not lead to full system compromise alone. However, in combination with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations, the risk escalates. European organizations with strict data protection requirements must prioritize addressing this vulnerability to avoid compliance violations and operational disruptions.

Since no official patches are currently available, European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Immediately audit all instances of code-projects Chat System 1.0 to identify exposed endpoints, especially /user/send_message.php. 2) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting the 'msg' parameter. 3) Restrict network access to the chat system to trusted internal IP ranges or VPN-only access to reduce exposure. 4) Conduct code reviews and implement input validation and parameterized queries or prepared statements in the message handling code to prevent injection. 5) Monitor logs for unusual database query patterns or failed injection attempts to detect exploitation attempts early. 6) Plan and prioritize upgrading to a patched or newer version of the chat system once available. 7) Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices and the risks of SQL injection. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on immediate containment, detection, and long-term remediation tailored to this specific vulnerability and product.