CVE-2026-25240 is an SQL injection vulnerability identified in the pearweb PHP framework, specifically in versions before 1.33.0. The vulnerability exists in the user::maintains() function, where role filters provided as arrays are interpolated directly into an SQL IN clause without proper sanitization or parameterization. This improper neutralization of special elements (CWE-89) allows an unauthenticated attacker to inject malicious SQL code remotely, potentially altering the logic of database queries. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 6.9 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction needed, and limited impact on data integrity but no impact on confidentiality or availability. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, making it easier to exploit if the vulnerable pearweb version is exposed to the internet. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a risk to applications relying on pearweb for PHP component management or web services. The patch was released in version 1.33.0, which properly sanitizes and parameterizes the role filter inputs to prevent injection. Organizations using pearweb should upgrade immediately and review their codebase for similar unsafe SQL practices. Additionally, monitoring and logging database queries for anomalies can help detect exploitation attempts.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized manipulation of database queries, potentially corrupting data integrity or enabling further attacks such as data leakage or privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities. While the direct confidentiality and availability impacts are low, the ability to alter SQL queries can undermine trust in critical applications, especially those managing user roles or permissions. Organizations in sectors like finance, government, and healthcare that rely on PHP-based web applications using pearweb are at risk of targeted exploitation. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation without authentication increases the threat surface, particularly for publicly accessible services. Exploitation could disrupt business operations, cause compliance issues under GDPR due to potential data integrity breaches, and damage organizational reputation. Proactive patching and code auditing are essential to mitigate these risks.

1. Upgrade pearweb to version 1.33.0 or later immediately to apply the official patch addressing the SQL injection vulnerability. 2. Conduct a thorough code review of all PHP applications using pearweb to identify and remediate any other instances of unsafe SQL query construction, especially those involving dynamic IN clauses or array inputs. 3. Implement parameterized queries or prepared statements consistently across the codebase to prevent SQL injection. 4. Enforce strict input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data, particularly arrays used in database queries. 5. Restrict network exposure of pearweb services to trusted internal networks or VPNs to reduce attack surface. 6. Enable detailed logging and monitoring of database queries and application logs to detect suspicious activity indicative of injection attempts. 7. Educate developers on secure coding practices related to SQL query construction and input handling. 8. Consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules targeting SQL injection patterns as an additional layer of defense.