CVE-2023-7179 in Online College Library System
Summary
by MITRE • 12/30/2023
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in Campcodes Online College Library System 1.0. Affected is an unknown function of the file /admin/category_row.php of the component HTTP POST Request Handler. The manipulation of the argument id leads to sql injection. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. VDB-249366 is the identifier assigned to this vulnerability.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-7179 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Campcodes Online College Library System version 1.0, specifically targeting the HTTP POST Request Handler component. This vulnerability exists in the /admin/category_row.php file where an improperly validated input parameter named 'id' is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the sql query execution by injecting malicious sql commands through the id parameter, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability's classification as critical reflects the severe impact potential, as sql injection attacks can enable unauthorized data access, data modification, or complete system compromise when exploited successfully.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through remote manipulation of the HTTP POST request handler, where the id parameter serves as the attack vector for sql injection. Attackers can construct malicious payloads that bypass input validation controls and directly influence the sql query execution flow. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from any location with network access to the vulnerable application. The disclosed exploit in VDB-249366 indicates that security researchers and malicious actors have already developed working attack code, increasing the immediate threat level.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges within the application, access administrative functions, and manipulate or destroy sensitive library data. The library management system likely contains confidential student information, book records, and administrative data that could be compromised through this vulnerability. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190 which addresses exploitation of remote services. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire library management ecosystem, potentially disrupting academic operations and violating privacy regulations.
Organizations utilizing this library system should implement immediate mitigation strategies including input parameter validation, prepared statement usage, and comprehensive code review processes. The recommended remediation involves implementing proper input sanitization mechanisms and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and block malicious requests. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components of the system. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping software components updated and following secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. System administrators should also implement proper access controls and monitor database activities for suspicious behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts.