CVE-2023-2852 in SelfPatron
Summary
by MITRE • 07/10/2023
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Softmed SelfPatron allows SQL Injection.This issue affects SelfPatron : before 2.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2852 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Softmed SelfPatron medical management system, specifically impacting versions prior to 2.0. This weakness falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89 which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into database queries through user input. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's database interaction layers, allowing attackers to manipulate SQL commands through specially crafted inputs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization. Attackers can exploit this by injecting malicious SQL fragments into input fields that are subsequently processed by the backend database engine. The flaw enables unauthorized access to sensitive patient data, potential data modification or deletion, and could facilitate privilege escalation within the system. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in healthcare environments where patient confidentiality and data integrity are paramount, as it directly violates the principles of data protection and system security.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-2852 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can result in complete system compromise and unauthorized access to critical medical information. An attacker could extract patient records, medical histories, and personal health data, potentially leading to identity theft, insurance fraud, or other malicious activities. The vulnerability also poses risks to system availability and integrity, as attackers might execute destructive commands such as DROP TABLE or UPDATE statements that could corrupt or destroy medical databases. Given that SelfPatron is designed for healthcare use, this vulnerability directly contravenes regulatory compliance requirements such as HIPAA and GDPR, exposing organizations to significant legal and financial consequences.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate implementation of parameterized queries and prepared statements to prevent direct SQL command injection. Organizations must conduct comprehensive input validation and sanitization across all user-facing interfaces, implementing proper escaping mechanisms for special characters. The recommended solution involves upgrading to SelfPatron version 2.0 or later, which includes patched SQL injection protections and enhanced security measures. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, database activity monitoring, and regular security assessments can provide layered defense against similar vulnerabilities. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for robust perimeter security and application hardening measures. Organizations should also establish proper access controls, implement database audit trails, and conduct regular penetration testing to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in their healthcare information systems.