CVE-2020-37084 in School ERP Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 02/04/2026
School ERP Pro 1.0 contains a remote code execution vulnerability that allows authenticated admin users to upload arbitrary PHP files as profile photos by bypassing file extension checks. Attackers can exploit improper file validation in pre-editstudent.inc.php to execute arbitrary code on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37084 resides within School ERP Pro version 1.0, a web-based educational management system that handles student records and administrative functions. This critical security flaw manifests as a remote code execution vulnerability that specifically targets authenticated administrator users, creating a significant risk for educational institutions that rely on this platform for their operational infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's file upload functionality, particularly affecting the profile photo upload feature that is accessible through the pre-editstudent.inc.php component.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits a flaw in the file extension validation process where the application fails to properly sanitize and verify file types during the upload process. Attackers with administrative credentials can bypass the intended file extension checks by manipulating the file upload mechanism to submit PHP files disguised with seemingly legitimate extensions. This improper validation creates a path for code execution since the application does not adequately verify the actual file content or enforce strict file type restrictions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages existing administrative privileges, eliminating the need for additional authentication or privilege escalation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive educational information. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the School ERP Pro system, particularly the student management features, which could result in disruption of educational services and potential exposure of student records. Given that the application is designed for use in educational environments, the compromise of such systems could have far-reaching implications for privacy, security, and institutional operations.
Organizations utilizing School ERP Pro version 1.0 should immediately implement mitigations to address this vulnerability, including applying the latest available security patches from the vendor if available, or implementing additional input validation controls to prevent PHP file uploads. The implementation of strict file type validation, content inspection, and proper file extension filtering mechanisms should be enforced at multiple layers of the application architecture. Security measures should also include monitoring for suspicious file upload activities and implementing principle of least privilege access controls to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities, and represents a significant concern from the ATT&CK framework perspective under the T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application, emphasizing the need for proper input validation and secure coding practices in web application development.