CVE-2021-25213 in Travel Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 07/23/2021
SQL injection vulnerability in SourceCodester Travel Management System v 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL statements, via the catid parameter to subcat.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2021
The CVE-2021-25213 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the SourceCodester Travel Management System version 1.0 that exposes the application to remote code execution risks. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the catid parameter in the subcat.php script, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database infrastructure. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the system's operational environment.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application security. The vulnerability operates by allowing an attacker to inject malicious SQL code through the catid parameter, potentially enabling them to perform unauthorized database operations such as data retrieval, modification, or deletion. When the application processes the catid parameter without proper sanitization, the injected SQL commands are executed within the database context, providing attackers with extensive control over the system's data layer. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's T1071.004 technique, which involves application layer protocol manipulation through SQL injection attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-25213 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access customer records, booking information, payment details, and other confidential data stored within the travel management system's database. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for web-facing applications. Additionally, successful exploitation could lead to service disruption, data corruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations that may result in significant financial and reputational damage to the organization operating the vulnerable system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-25213 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to eliminate the possibility of SQL injection attacks through user-supplied parameters. Organizations should apply the latest security patches provided by the vendor, if available, or implement custom fixes that sanitize all input data before processing. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, establishing database access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and regular database monitoring can further reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools and regular code reviews to prevent similar injection flaws from being introduced in future development cycles.