CVE-2024-31506 in Online Graduate Tracer System
Summary
by MITRE • 04/09/2024
Sourcecodester Online Graduate Tracer System v1.0 is vulnerable to SQL Injection via the "id" parameter in admin/admin_cs.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The CVE-2024-31506 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Sourcecodester Online Graduate Tracer System version 1.0, specifically targeting the administrative interface component. This system, designed for tracking graduate outcomes, contains a SQL injection vulnerability that stems from improper input validation within the admin_cs.php file. The vulnerability is triggered when the application processes the "id" parameter without adequate sanitization or parameterization, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to manipulate the underlying database. The affected parameter resides within the administrative section of the application, making it particularly concerning as it provides access to privileged user data and system functionality.
This SQL injection vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The flaw occurs when user-supplied input is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization techniques. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious SQL commands through the "id" parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive graduate information, modifying database records, or even executing arbitrary code on the server. The vulnerability's impact is amplified because it exists within the administrative interface, which typically contains the most sensitive data and system controls. The weakness demonstrates poor input validation practices and violates fundamental database security principles that require all external input to be properly sanitized before being processed in SQL contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to perform complete system compromise through database manipulation. An attacker could extract all graduate records, modify user credentials, delete critical data, or escalate privileges within the application. The vulnerability's presence in the admin_cs.php file suggests that the administrative functionality lacks proper access controls and input validation mechanisms, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1566 for credential access through exploitation of web application vulnerabilities. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the system handles graduate tracer data, which often includes personal identifiable information and sensitive academic records that require protection under privacy regulations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-31506 should prioritize immediate implementation of parameterized queries and input validation controls. The development team must refactor the admin_cs.php file to utilize prepared statements or parameterized queries, ensuring that all user input is properly escaped or validated before database processing. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and authentication mechanisms within the administrative interface will limit exposure even if other vulnerabilities exist. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be deployed to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities throughout the application codebase. The system should also implement proper logging and monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and database query anomalies. Organizations using this system should consider implementing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that administrative functions are only accessible to authorized personnel with proper authentication and authorization mechanisms in place. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and adherence to OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly focusing on input validation and database security controls.