CVE-2026-2220 is a SQL injection vulnerability identified in the Online Reviewer System version 1.0 developed by code-projects. The vulnerability resides in the PHP file located at /system/system/admins/assessments/pretest/btn_functions.php, specifically involving the difficulty_id parameter. This parameter is improperly sanitized, allowing an attacker to inject arbitrary SQL commands remotely without authentication or user interaction. The injection can lead to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion within the underlying database, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 base score of 6.9, indicating a medium severity level. The exploit code is publicly available, increasing the risk of exploitation despite no current reports of active attacks. The vulnerability affects only version 1.0 of the product, and no official patches have been linked yet. The attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity and no privileges required, making it accessible to a wide range of attackers. The lack of scope change means the impact is confined to the vulnerable component but still significant given the nature of SQL injection. This vulnerability is critical for organizations relying on the Online Reviewer System for managing assessments and reviews, as it could lead to data breaches or system disruptions.

For European organizations, exploitation of CVE-2026-2220 could result in unauthorized access to sensitive assessment data, manipulation or deletion of records, and potential disruption of review processes. This could undermine the integrity of academic or professional evaluations, damage organizational reputation, and lead to compliance violations under data protection regulations such as GDPR. The remote and unauthenticated nature of the exploit increases the risk of widespread attacks, especially in institutions or companies using the affected software version. Data confidentiality is at risk due to possible extraction of sensitive information, while data integrity and availability may be compromised through unauthorized modifications or denial of service. The medium severity rating reflects a balance between the potential impact and the current lack of known active exploitation, but the availability of public exploit code heightens urgency for mitigation. Organizations in sectors such as education, certification bodies, and HR departments using this system are particularly vulnerable. Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to financial losses, legal consequences, and operational disruptions.

European organizations should immediately assess their use of the code-projects Online Reviewer System version 1.0 and prioritize remediation. Since no official patches are currently linked, implement the following mitigations: 1) Apply strict input validation and sanitization on the difficulty_id parameter to block malicious SQL payloads. 2) Refactor database queries to use parameterized prepared statements or stored procedures to prevent injection. 3) Restrict network access to the vulnerable application components using firewalls or VPNs to limit exposure. 4) Monitor logs for suspicious SQL query patterns or unusual access attempts targeting the difficulty_id parameter. 5) Consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection attempts. 6) If feasible, upgrade to a newer, patched version of the software once available or consider alternative solutions. 7) Conduct security awareness training for administrators managing the system to recognize exploitation signs. 8) Regularly back up data and test restoration procedures to mitigate damage from potential attacks. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice and address the specific vulnerability vector and environment.