CVE-2023-48864 in SEMCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 01/10/2024
SEMCMS v4.8 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the languageID parameter in /web_inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-48864 affects SEMCMS version 4.8 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw that undermines the application's database security posture. This vulnerability resides within the web_inc.php script where the languageID parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to manipulate the underlying database infrastructure. The flaw enables unauthorized users to execute arbitrary SQL commands through carefully crafted input, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data stored within the CMS database.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a direct result of insufficient input validation and improper handling of user-supplied data within database queries. Attackers can exploit this weakness by submitting malicious payloads through the languageID parameter that alters the intended SQL query structure, allowing them to extract, modify, or delete database records without proper authorization. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable full database compromise, potentially leading to complete system infiltration and persistent access for attackers.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to organizations utilizing SEMCMS v4.8, particularly those handling sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, or business-critical records. The exploitation process requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to both skilled attackers and automated exploitation tools. The vulnerability's location within a core include file suggests that successful exploitation could affect multiple application functionalities and potentially provide attackers with elevated privileges within the system. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Security mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patch application from the vendor to address the SQL injection vulnerability in SEMCMS v4.8. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries within the web_inc.php script would prevent similar issues in future deployments. Network segmentation and database access controls should be strengthened to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust security testing practices including automated scanning and manual penetration testing to identify and remediate similar weaknesses across the application stack. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting SQL injection vulnerabilities.