CVE-2023-2148 in Online Thesis Archiving System
Summary
by MITRE • 04/18/2023
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Campcodes Online Thesis Archiving System 1.0. This affects an unknown part of the file /admin/curriculum/view_curriculum.php. The manipulation of the argument id leads to sql injection. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-226269 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/05/2023
This critical sql injection vulnerability exists within the Campcodes Online Thesis Archiving System version 1.0, specifically targeting the /admin/curriculum/view_curriculum.php file. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the id parameter, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the database query execution process. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the potential for severe data compromise and system exploitation. The attack vector is remote, meaning that unauthorized parties can exploit this weakness without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and parameter handling within the php application code. When the application receives an id parameter through the url, it directly incorporates this value into sql queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization. This creates an environment where sql injection attacks can successfully manipulate the database structure, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, data modification, or complete database compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications, and represents a classic example of insufficient input sanitization in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to escalate privileges, access administrative functions, or extract sensitive information from the database. Given that this is a remote exploit with public disclosure, the attack surface is significantly broadened, as potential adversaries can immediately target vulnerable installations. The compromised system may contain academic records, user credentials, and institutional data that could be leveraged for further attacks or sold on underground markets. Organizations running this software version face immediate risk of data breaches and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the Campcodes Online Thesis Archiving System to the latest version that addresses this sql injection vulnerability. Until patches are applied, organizations should implement input validation measures such as parameterized queries, prepared statements, and strict input sanitization routines. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense layers. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database query patterns or unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability's public disclosure status necessitates urgent remediation efforts and regular security assessments to identify similar weaknesses in other system components. Organizations should also consider implementing database access controls and regular security audits to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities.