CVE-2020-37112 in GUnet OpenEclass
Summary
by MITRE • 02/03/2026
GUnet OpenEclass 1.7.3 contains multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities that allow authenticated attackers to manipulate database queries through unvalidated parameters. Attackers can exploit the 'month' parameter in the agenda module and other endpoints to extract sensitive database information using error-based or time-based injection techniques.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37112 affects GUnet OpenEclass version 1.7.3, a widely used open-source learning management system that serves educational institutions globally. This security flaw represents a critical weakness in the application's input validation mechanisms, specifically targeting the agenda module and other endpoints within the platform. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an environment where authenticated malicious actors can manipulate database queries through carefully crafted inputs. The affected 'month' parameter within the agenda module demonstrates how seemingly innocuous input fields can become entry points for sophisticated database exploitation techniques. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it requires only authentication to exploit, meaning that any user with valid credentials can potentially access or manipulate the underlying database structure.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious SQL commands through the unvalidated 'month' parameter, which is processed without proper input sanitization or parameterized query construction. Attackers can leverage error-based injection techniques where the application reveals database structure information through error messages, or employ time-based injection methods that rely on conditional responses to infer database contents. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious input strings that manipulate the SQL query execution flow, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications, and represents a classic example of how insecure parameter handling can compromise database integrity. The attack vector demonstrates the fundamental principle that all user inputs should be treated as potentially malicious and validated through proper sanitization techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as authenticated attackers can potentially escalate their privileges within the system or extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and institutional records. The implications for educational institutions using OpenEclass are particularly severe given the sensitive nature of student information and academic records stored within these platforms. Database extraction through SQL injection can lead to comprehensive data breaches that compromise not only individual privacy but also institutional security posture. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the entire system, as attackers can manipulate the underlying data structure to alter or delete critical information. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential legal consequences if sensitive educational data is compromised through such vulnerabilities. The time-based injection techniques often employed in such scenarios can also impact system performance and availability, creating additional operational challenges for administrators.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-37112 should focus on immediate patch application to the affected OpenEclass version, as vendors typically release security updates to address known vulnerabilities. Implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries should become standard practice for all database interactions within the application codebase. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts, while establishing robust monitoring systems to identify unusual database access patterns. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that database accounts used by the application have minimal required permissions. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application and its dependencies. Additionally, implementing proper authentication controls and session management can limit the scope of potential exploitation, while regular security training for administrators can help prevent social engineering attacks that might lead to credential compromise. These measures align with the ATT&CK framework's mitigation strategies for database access and credential access techniques, emphasizing the importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing such vulnerabilities from being exploited in real-world scenarios.