CVE-2020-37035 in e-learning PHP Script
Summary
by MITRE • 01/31/2026
e-Learning PHP Script 0.1.0 contains a SQL injection vulnerability in the search functionality that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through unvalidated user input. Attackers can inject malicious SQL code in the 'search' parameter to potentially extract, modify, or access sensitive database information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37035 affects the e-Learning PHP Script version 0.1.0, representing a critical security flaw that compromises the integrity of database operations within the application. This issue resides specifically within the search functionality of the platform, where user input is not properly validated or sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The vulnerability creates a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the application's database layer through direct manipulation of SQL commands, fundamentally undermining the security posture of the entire learning management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation practices within the application's backend code. When users submit search queries through the interface, the application directly incorporates the search parameter into SQL statements without appropriate sanitization or parameterization. This primitive approach to database interaction enables attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can alter the intended behavior of database queries. 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 becomes part of the executable SQL command. The attack vector is straightforward yet devastating, as the search parameter serves as the primary entry point for SQL injection attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data exposure, potentially enabling comprehensive database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive educational information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential user data including student records, course materials, administrator credentials, and other sensitive information stored within the database. The implications are particularly severe in educational environments where personal data protection regulations such as GDPR or FERPA may apply. Additionally, the vulnerability could allow attackers to modify or delete database content, potentially disrupting the entire learning management system and compromising the integrity of educational data. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that this vulnerability affects the core search functionality, which is likely accessed frequently by both legitimate users and potential attackers, making it a high-value target for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application's database interaction code, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly escaped or parameterized before being incorporated into SQL statements. Security measures should include input sanitization routines that filter out potentially malicious SQL characters and patterns, while also implementing proper output encoding to prevent any residual injection attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring systems to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process must follow established security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines, ensuring that the fix addresses not only the immediate vulnerability but also strengthens the overall application security architecture. Regular security testing including automated scanning and manual penetration testing should be implemented to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application.