CVE-2026-57308 in Syncope
Summary
by MITRE • 07/20/2026
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Apache Syncope.
An administrator with adequate entitlements can achieve execution of arbitrary SQL via stacked queries, leveraging unsanitized sort parameters.
This issue affects Apache Syncope: from 3.0.0-M0 through 3.0.16, from 4.0.0-M0 Through 4.0.6, from 4.1.0-M0 through 4.1.1.
Users are recommended to upgrade to version 4.0.7 / 4.1.2, which fix this issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in Apache Syncope that directly enables unauthorized execution of arbitrary database commands through improperly sanitized input parameters. The vulnerability specifically manifests when administrators with sufficient privileges utilize sort parameters that are not adequately neutralized before being incorporated into sql queries. This improper handling of user-supplied data creates an attack vector where maliciously crafted sort parameters can be transformed into stacked sql queries that execute with the privileges of the authenticated administrator.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's query construction process. When sort parameters are passed directly into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization, attackers can inject malicious sql code that gets executed alongside legitimate database operations. This type of vulnerability maps directly to cwe-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration framework, which classifies it as a direct injection attack where user-controllable data is embedded into sql commands without adequate sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification to encompass complete system compromise. An attacker with administrative access can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary sql commands that may include data extraction, modification, deletion, or even privilege escalation within the database layer. The stacked query execution capability amplifies the potential damage by allowing multiple sql operations to be executed in sequence, potentially enabling complex attack scenarios including database enumeration, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within the affected system.
This vulnerability affects multiple version ranges of Apache Syncope including 3.0.0-M0 through 3.0.16, 4.0.0-M0 through 4.0.6, and 4.1.0-M0 through 4.1.1, indicating a prolonged period during which the application remained susceptible to this type of injection attack. The attack pattern aligns with techniques described in the mitre att&ck framework under the execution tactic, specifically targeting database systems through sql injection methods that bypass traditional input validation controls.
The recommended remediation involves upgrading to version 4.0.7 or 4.1.2 which contain patched implementations that properly sanitize and neutralize sort parameters before their inclusion in sql queries. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures including parameterized queries, proper escaping of special characters, and regular security assessments to ensure similar vulnerabilities do not persist in other components of their infrastructure. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts.
Organizations utilizing Apache Syncope should conduct immediate vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected versions and implement the necessary upgrades as quickly as possible. The remediation process should include thorough testing of the updated software to ensure that all sql injection vectors have been properly addressed while maintaining existing functionality. Security teams should also review access controls and administrative privileges to limit potential impact from any remaining vulnerabilities in the system architecture.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and sanitization in web applications, particularly those handling sensitive authentication and authorization data. This type of flaw represents a common attack surface that has been extensively documented in security literature and industry standards, emphasizing the need for continuous security awareness and regular software updates to maintain robust defenses against sql injection attacks that continue to pose significant threats to enterprise systems.