CVE-2022-21666 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Useful Simple Open-Source CMS (USOC) is a content management system (CMS) for programmers. A vulnerability in versions prior to Pb2.4Bfx3 allows SQL injection in usersearch.php for users with administrative privileges. Immediate action should be taken by users to replace the affected file.

Understanding CVE-2022-21666

This CVE refers to a SQL injection vulnerability in the

useredit.php

file of the USOC CMS.

What is CVE-2022-21666?

The vulnerability in USOC versions before Pb2.4Bfx3 allows malicious actors to execute SQL injection attacks through the

usersearch.php

file, specifically targeting users with administrative privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2022-21666

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS base score of 7.2. It poses risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, requiring immediate attention and remediation.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-21666

The technical details of the CVE include:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in an SQL command (SQL Injection), leading to unauthorized access and potential data manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

USOC versions prior to Pb2.4Bfx3 are affected by this vulnerability, specifically impacting users with administrative privileges accessing usersearch.php.

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious actors can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious SQL commands through the usersearch.php file, gaining unauthorized access and possibly compromising sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-21666, the following steps are recommended:

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should replace the vulnerable

admin/pages/useredit.php

file with an updated version available in USOC version Pb2.4Bfx3 or later.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security assessments, code reviews, and user privilege management are important for preventing and detecting such vulnerabilities in CMS applications.

Patching and Updates

Maintain up-to-date versions of the USOC CMS and apply patches promptly to address any known security vulnerabilities.