CVE-2018-18796 in Library Management System
Summary
by MITRE
Library Management System 1.0 has SQL Injection via the "Search for Books" screen.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2020
The Library Management System version 1.0 contains a critical sql injection vulnerability that exists within the "Search for Books" functionality, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling when processing user-supplied search queries. The flaw enables malicious actors to manipulate the sql query structure by injecting specially crafted sql payloads through the search interface, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data including user credentials, book records, and system information.
This vulnerability maps directly to cwe-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration catalog, which classifies it as a direct injection of sql commands into database queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerable component is exposed through a web interface that likely requires minimal authentication to access, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. The vulnerability exists due to the application's failure to properly escape or parameterize user input before incorporating it into sql statements, creating a persistent vector for data exfiltration and system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify or delete database records, escalate privileges within the system, and potentially establish persistent backdoors through database-level persistence mechanisms. The library management system's reliance on sql queries for search functionality makes it particularly susceptible to this type of attack, as the search feature typically requires dynamic sql construction based on user input. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive information such as patron records, book inventory data, and potentially administrative credentials stored within the same database.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, beginning with immediate input validation and parameterized query implementation across all database interactions. The remediation strategy should include proper sql escaping mechanisms, input sanitization, and the adoption of prepared statements or stored procedures to prevent direct sql command injection. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring systems can provide additional detection capabilities for suspicious sql patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify similar injection flaws in other application components, aligning with defense in depth principles and addressing potential attack vectors identified in the mitre att&ck framework under the execution and credential access domains. Organizations should also consider implementing least privilege database access controls and regular security patching to reduce the overall attack surface and minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities.