CVE-2023-38190 in SuperWebMailer
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
An issue was discovered in SuperWebMailer 9.00.0.01710. It allows Export SQL Injection via the size parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-38190 affects SuperWebMailer version 9.00.0.01710 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw that can be exploited through the size parameter during export operations. This issue falls under the category of insecure data handling within web applications, specifically targeting the database interaction layer where user-supplied input is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into SQL queries. The vulnerability exists in the application's export functionality where the size parameter is directly used in database queries without adequate input validation or parameterization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input for the size parameter that contains SQL payload commands. When the application processes this parameter during export operations, the unsanitized input gets concatenated directly into SQL statements, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database. This type of injection vulnerability is classified as CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate export functionality, making it harder to detect and potentially bypassing standard security monitoring systems that might not flag normal export operations as suspicious.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation, as it can enable full database compromise including unauthorized access to sensitive user information, system credentials, and potentially allow attackers to escalate privileges within the application environment. Given that SuperWebMailer is typically used for email marketing and management, the compromised data could include personal information, contact lists, and potentially confidential business communications. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to perform lateral movement within network environments if the database server is not properly isolated, as successful exploitation could lead to further system compromise and data exfiltration. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential access through exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-38190 should prioritize immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should apply the vendor-supplied patch or update to a version that addresses this vulnerability, as the flaw affects the core database interaction functionality. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures including whitelisting acceptable values for the size parameter, employing prepared statements or parameterized queries, and conducting regular security assessments of web application components can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Network segmentation and database access controls should also be reviewed to limit potential damage from successful attacks, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect unusual export operations that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in database operations, aligning with security best practices outlined in standards such as NIST SP 800-160 and ISO 27001 for secure application development and operation.