CVE-2008-0942 in Student Information System
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in GradebookStuScores.asp in Eagle Software Aeries Browser Interface (ABI) 3.8.2.8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the GrdBk parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0942 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Eagle Software Aeries Browser Interface version 3.8.2.8, specifically affecting the GradebookStuScores.asp component. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructions. The affected parameter GrdBk serves as the primary attack vector, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that bypass normal authentication and authorization controls. The vulnerability exists due to the application's failure to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization techniques, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data directly influences database query execution paths.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established SQL injection attack pattern that aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in software security. Attackers can manipulate the GrdBk parameter to inject malicious SQL payloads that may result in unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion within the underlying database system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the application interface is exposed to external networks. This type of attack can potentially lead to complete database compromise, allowing threat actors to extract sensitive academic records, manipulate student grades, or even escalate privileges within the application's security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to gain persistent access to educational institution databases containing sensitive student information, academic records, and potentially administrative credentials. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious input that bypasses standard security controls and leverages the application's trust in user-provided data. According to ATT&CK framework category TA0006 (Credential Access) and TA0002 (Execution), successful exploitation can lead to credential theft through database queries and potentially remote code execution if the database server allows such operations. Organizations utilizing this software face significant risks including regulatory compliance violations under FERPA and other educational data protection regulations, potential legal consequences, and reputational damage from data breaches affecting student privacy and institutional integrity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized query approaches to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should implement proper web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms to filter malicious payloads before they reach the database layer. The recommended approach includes updating to patched versions of the Aeries Browser Interface software, implementing proper database user permissions that limit the privileges of application accounts, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of all database interfaces. Additionally, organizations should establish regular security testing procedures including automated vulnerability scanning and manual penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other components of their educational technology infrastructure. The remediation process should also incorporate proper error handling to prevent information disclosure and implement logging mechanisms that can detect and alert on suspicious database query patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation of similar vulnerabilities.