CVE-2018-25398 in Open ISES Project
Summary
by MITRE • 05/29/2026
The Open ISES Project 3.30A contains an SQL injection vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries by injecting malicious code through the frm_passwd parameter. Attackers can send POST requests to main.php with crafted SQL payloads to extract sensitive database information including usernames, database names, and version details.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2026
The Open ISES Project version 3.30A presents a critical SQL injection vulnerability that fundamentally compromises the integrity of the application's database layer. This vulnerability exists within the frm_passwd parameter handling mechanism in main.php, where user input is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw represents a classic case of insecure data handling that violates fundamental security principles and creates an exploitable entry point for malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and query construction practices within the application's authentication framework. When attackers submit POST requests containing malicious SQL payloads through the frm_passwd parameter, the system fails to properly escape or parameterize the input before incorporating it into database queries. This creates a condition where arbitrary SQL commands can be executed with the privileges of the database user account under which the application operates. The vulnerability specifically targets the authentication mechanism and allows attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure through direct query injection techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables comprehensive database enumeration and potential lateral movement within the affected infrastructure. Attackers can extract usernames from user tables, discover database schema information including table names and column structures, and obtain version details that provide critical intelligence for further exploitation. This reconnaissance capability significantly increases the risk profile as adversaries can tailor subsequent attacks based on discovered database characteristics and application configurations.
Security professionals should note this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack vector follows standard penetration testing methodologies where unauthenticated remote exploitation is achieved through web application interfaces. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this represents a technique that maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS) when combined with reconnaissance activities. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls while conducting thorough security assessments of related systems.
Recommended remediation strategies include implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries for all database interactions, enforcing strict input validation on all user-supplied data, and applying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar patterns in other application components. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create significant security risks in web applications.