CVE-2023-51298 in Event Booking Calendar
Summary
by MITRE • 02/19/2025
PHPJabbers Event Booking Calendar v4.0 is vulnerable to CSV Injection vulnerability which allows an attacker to execute remote code. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation on Languages section Labels any parameters field in System Options that is used to construct CSV file.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51298 affects PHPJabbers Event Booking Calendar version 4.0 and represents a critical CSV injection flaw that can lead to remote code execution. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the system's language configuration section, specifically in the labels any parameters field located within System Options. The flaw occurs when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into CSV file generation without proper sanitization or escaping mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject harmful code sequences that can be executed when the CSV files are processed.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of user input within the application's CSV generation logic. When administrators or users modify language labels through the system options interface, the application fails to validate or sanitize the input before incorporating it into CSV file structures. This oversight creates a condition where specially crafted malicious input can be interpreted by spreadsheet applications as executable commands rather than plain text data, enabling attackers to leverage this weakness for code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1236, which specifically addresses the improper neutralization of special elements used in CSV files, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.006 for Command and Scripting Interpreter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption or unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. An attacker could potentially inject malicious formulas or commands into the CSV files that would execute when opened in spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. This remote code execution capability could allow adversaries to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire calendar application and potentially the underlying system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51298 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the application's data handling processes. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor's patch or update to version 4.1 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed. Additionally, administrators should implement strict input validation for all user-supplied data, particularly in configuration sections that affect file generation processes. The implementation of proper CSV escaping mechanisms and the use of secure coding practices for data serialization should be enforced. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the potential impact of exploitation, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems.