CVE-2022-36682 in Simple Task Scheduling System
Summary
by MITRE • 08/26/2022
Simple Task Scheduling System v1.0 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the id parameter at /classes/Master.php?f=delete_student.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2022
The Simple Task Scheduling System version 1.0 presents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands through a carefully crafted input parameter. This vulnerability specifically affects the delete_student function within the Master.php class file, where the id parameter is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw represents a classic SQL injection vulnerability that falls under the CWE-89 category, which encompasses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the id parameter to inject malicious SQL syntax that bypasses authentication mechanisms, extracts sensitive data, or modifies database records. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and the absence of prepared statements or parameterized queries in the application's database interaction layer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this SQL injection flaw can gain unauthorized access to all student records, personal information, and related scheduling data stored within the system. The vulnerability allows for read, write, and delete operations on the underlying database, potentially leading to data breaches, identity theft, and service disruption. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable application version is deployed, making it particularly dangerous for educational institutions or organizations relying on the system for student management. The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, specifically targeting web applications through SQL injection methods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of several security controls and code modifications. The primary remediation involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application's database interaction points, particularly in the Master.php file where the vulnerability exists. Developers should replace direct string concatenation with prepared statements or stored procedures to ensure user input cannot alter the intended SQL command structure. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and least privilege principles can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. The system should also incorporate input sanitization measures including character encoding, length validation, and whitelist-based input filtering for all parameters. Security monitoring and logging should be enhanced to detect anomalous database access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of similar applications to identify and remediate comparable vulnerabilities throughout their infrastructure. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be implemented to prevent future introduction of such flaws. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and adherence to web application security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project.