CVE-2018-6863 in Select Your College Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection exists in PHP Scripts Mall Select Your College Script 2.0.2 via a Login Parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6863 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the PHP Scripts Mall Select Your College Script version 2.0.2. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the login parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations. The affected application employs insufficient input validation and sanitization techniques, allowing attackers to manipulate SQL query structures through crafted login credentials. Such a flaw fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the underlying database system, potentially exposing sensitive user information including authentication credentials, personal details, and institutional data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the authentication mechanism. When users attempt to log in, the script fails to properly escape or sanitize the login input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This creates an environment where an attacker can inject malicious SQL code through the login parameter, potentially bypassing authentication entirely or extracting database contents. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a classic example of unsafe query construction where user-supplied data directly influences database query execution paths. The attack vector operates through standard web application penetration testing methodologies, where the attacker submits specially crafted login parameters designed to manipulate the SQL query structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, potentially enabling complete database compromise and system infiltration. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to retrieve all user accounts, modify institutional records, or even escalate privileges to administrative levels within the application. The exposure of the login parameter as the attack surface means that any authentication attempt could be exploited, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it affects core application functionality. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application, and T1071.004 for application layer protocol, representing a common attack pattern in web application security exploitation. The potential for data exfiltration, account takeover, and system compromise creates significant risk for educational institutions relying on such college selection platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-6863 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries. Organizations should implement prepared statements or parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, ensuring that all user inputs are properly escaped or sanitized before database interaction. The application should enforce strict input validation on login parameters, rejecting malformed or suspicious input patterns. Additionally, implementing proper error handling that does not expose database structure information is crucial to prevent information leakage. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities, while applying the latest security patches from the vendor. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. The remediation process should also include comprehensive security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles, aligning with secure coding practices outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.