CVE-2024-0730 in Online Time Table Generator
Summary
by MITRE • 01/19/2024
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in Project Worlds Online Time Table Generator 1.0. This affects an unknown part of the file course_ajax.php. The manipulation of the argument id leads to sql injection. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-251553 was assigned to this vulnerability.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2024
This critical sql injection vulnerability exists in Project Worlds Online Time Table Generator version 1.0 within the course_ajax.php file where the id parameter is improperly handled. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious sql commands through the id argument, potentially compromising the entire database system. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates severe security implications that could result in unauthorized data access, data manipulation, or complete system compromise. The remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. The public disclosure of the exploit and assignment of VDB-251553 identifier confirms that threat actors have already developed and shared methods to exploit this weakness, increasing the risk to affected systems.
The technical implementation of this sql injection vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling within the course_ajax.php script. When user-supplied id values are directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization, malicious inputs can alter the intended query structure. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands that could extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even delete entire tables. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations through the web interface, potentially accessing student records, course information, or administrative data that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential regulatory violations. Organizations using this time table generator may face significant consequences including data breaches, compliance violations under regulations such as gdpr or hipaa, and reputational damage from unauthorized access to educational records. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the time table generator application, potentially disrupting educational scheduling processes and creating unauthorized access points for malicious actors. The remote nature of the attack means that any system running this vulnerable software is immediately at risk, regardless of network security measures in place. This type of vulnerability also increases the attack surface for lateral movement within network environments where the application may be integrated with other systems.
Mitigation strategies for this sql injection vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the course_ajax.php file and similar scripts within the application. All user inputs should be sanitized and validated before processing, with proper escaping or parameterization techniques employed to prevent sql command injection. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts, along with regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The exploit's public disclosure necessitates immediate patching or mitigation, as attackers are actively leveraging this weakness. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unusual database activities can help detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to owasp top ten security guidelines, particularly those addressing injection flaws and input validation. The incident underscores the critical need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses in educational software systems.