CVE-2025-8994 is a time-based SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the WP Project Manager plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions up to and including 2.6.26. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of special characters in the 'completed_at_operator' parameter, which is used in SQL queries without sufficient escaping or parameterization. This flaw allows authenticated users with Subscriber-level privileges or higher to inject malicious SQL code into existing queries. The injection is time-based, meaning attackers can infer data by measuring response delays, enabling extraction of sensitive information from the underlying database. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality of data but does not impact integrity or availability. Exploitation requires authentication but no additional user interaction, making it a significant risk in environments where low-privilege users have access. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.5 reflects medium severity, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and partial confidentiality impact. No patches are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the risk remains due to the widespread use of WordPress and this plugin for project management tasks. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, indicating improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a notable risk to the confidentiality of sensitive project management data stored within WordPress environments using the affected plugin. Attackers with minimal privileges can extract confidential information such as project details, user data, or internal notes, potentially leading to data breaches or leakage of intellectual property. This can undermine trust, cause regulatory compliance issues under GDPR, and damage organizational reputation. Since the vulnerability does not affect data integrity or availability, operational disruption is less likely, but the exposure of sensitive data alone can have severe consequences. Organizations relying heavily on collaborative project management tools integrated with WordPress are particularly vulnerable. The risk is amplified in sectors with strict data protection requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and government entities across Europe.

Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting access to the affected plugin features to trusted users only and monitoring for unusual database query patterns indicative of SQL injection attempts. Organizations should implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block exploitation attempts targeting the 'completed_at_operator' parameter. Until an official patch is released, administrators can apply manual input validation and sanitization on the parameter, ensuring only expected operators are accepted. Employing parameterized queries or prepared statements in custom code interfacing with the plugin can reduce risk. Regularly auditing user privileges to minimize Subscriber-level access where not necessary will limit the attack surface. Additionally, organizations should maintain up-to-date backups and monitor logs for suspicious activity. Once a vendor patch is available, prompt application is critical. Security teams should also educate users about the risks of SQL injection and enforce strong authentication controls to prevent unauthorized access.