CVE-2025-9977 identifies a vulnerability in Times Software E-Payroll where one of the POST parameters used during the login process is not properly sanitized. This improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands (CWE-89) allows an unauthenticated attacker to potentially perform denial-of-service (DoS) attacks by sending crafted requests that disrupt normal application behavior. While SQL injection attacks are theoretically possible, backend filtering mechanisms appear to prevent successful exploitation so far. Additionally, attempts at command injection cause the application to return detailed error messages, which disclose sensitive information about the internal infrastructure (CWE-209). The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates the attack is network-based (AV:A), low complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a low degree (VC:L, VI:N, VA:L). The vendor has not responded to communications from the CNA, and no patches are currently available. This leaves organizations running the affected product exposed to potential exploitation, especially denial-of-service conditions and information leakage that could aid further attacks.

For European organizations, the primary impact is the risk of denial-of-service attacks that could disrupt payroll processing, a critical business function. This disruption could lead to operational delays, employee dissatisfaction, and compliance issues with labor regulations. The information leakage through verbose error messages could assist attackers in mapping internal infrastructure, increasing the risk of targeted attacks or lateral movement within networks. Although no confirmed SQL injection exploits exist, the potential remains, which could lead to unauthorized data access or modification, impacting confidentiality and integrity. Organizations relying on Times Software E-Payroll for payroll management, especially those with large employee bases or regulatory scrutiny, face increased operational and reputational risks. The lack of vendor response and patch availability exacerbates these risks, requiring organizations to implement compensating controls promptly.

Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization on all POST parameters, especially those involved in authentication processes, to prevent injection attacks. Employing web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious SQL or command injection patterns can provide an additional protective layer. Error handling should be improved to avoid disclosing detailed internal error messages; generic error responses should be configured to prevent information leakage. Network segmentation and limiting access to the E-Payroll application to trusted hosts can reduce exposure. Regular monitoring and logging of application behavior for anomalous requests indicative of injection attempts are critical. Since no patch is available, organizations should engage with the vendor for updates and consider alternative payroll solutions if risk tolerance is low. Conducting penetration testing focused on injection vectors can help identify and remediate weaknesses proactively.