CVE-2020-27240 in OpenClinic GA
Summary
by MITRE • 04/20/2021
An exploitable SQL injection vulnerability exists in ‘getAssets.jsp’ page of OpenClinic GA 5.173.3. The componentStatus parameter in the getAssets.jsp page is vulnerable to unauthenticated SQL injection An attacker can make an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-27240 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the OpenClinic GA 5.173.3 medical records management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the getAssets.jsp page, which serves as a component for asset management within the healthcare information system. The flaw resides in how the application processes the componentStatus parameter, which is directly incorporated into database queries without proper input sanitization or parameterization. This allows an attacker to manipulate the underlying database queries through malicious input, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive patient data and system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper query construction practices within the Java-based web application. When an attacker submits malicious input through the componentStatus parameter, the application fails to properly escape or sanitize the input before incorporating it into SQL commands. This creates a pathway for attackers to inject arbitrary SQL code that executes within the database context, potentially enabling data extraction, modification, or deletion operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through unauthenticated HTTP requests, though the description indicates that authenticated access may be required for full exploitation. This SQL injection flaw falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of medical records systems that are critical to healthcare delivery. Attackers could potentially extract patient medical histories, personal identification information, and other sensitive healthcare data, violating privacy regulations such as HIPAA and GDPR. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to system compromise, data corruption, or unauthorized administrative access to the healthcare information system. Given that OpenClinic GA is designed for medical environments, the potential for harm increases significantly, as compromised patient data could affect treatment decisions and patient safety. The vulnerability represents a serious risk to healthcare organizations' compliance with regulatory requirements and could result in significant financial penalties and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-27240 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches or updates that address this specific vulnerability. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input sanitization techniques, including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable components, while regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process should also include comprehensive code reviews focusing on database interaction patterns and input handling mechanisms to prevent similar issues from emerging in other parts of the application. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous database access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.