CVE-2016-2555 in ATutor
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in include/lib/mysql_connect.inc.php in ATutor 2.2.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the searchFriends function to friends.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2555 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the ATutor learning management system version 2.2.1. This security weakness resides in the mysql_connect.inc.php file located within the include/lib directory of the application. The vulnerability specifically affects the searchFriends function which is implemented in friends.inc.php, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database through crafted input parameters. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the application's database interaction layer, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the database user account.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic SQL injection attack vector where user-supplied input from the searchFriends functionality is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper parameterization or escaping mechanisms. This design flaw enables attackers to manipulate the SQL execution flow by injecting malicious SQL syntax that can bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute destructive operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local system access or credentials to leverage this weakness, making it particularly dangerous in web-facing applications. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-89: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command, which falls under the broader category of injection vulnerabilities that consistently rank among the top security risks in web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-2555 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive educational data. Attackers could potentially access student records, course materials, user credentials, and administrative information stored within the ATutor database. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the learning management system, potentially exposing personal information and academic records to unauthorized parties. Organizations using ATutor 2.2.1 face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage if this vulnerability remains unpatched. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that ATutor is commonly used in educational institutions where sensitive personal and academic data is stored, making the potential impact of exploitation severe.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2555 should focus on immediate patching of the affected ATutor version to the latest available release that addresses this SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their application code to prevent similar injection attacks. The use of prepared statements and stored procedures can effectively neutralize SQL injection risks by separating SQL command structure from data values. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive code reviews to identify other potential injection points within the application and ensure that all user inputs are properly sanitized before database interaction. According to ATT&CK framework methodology, this vulnerability would be categorized under T1190: Exploit Public-Facing Application, representing a common attack pattern where adversaries target web applications to gain unauthorized access to backend systems and data repositories.