CVE-2022-24707 is a SQL Injection vulnerability affecting the Anuko Time Tracker, an open-source, web-based time tracking application written in PHP. Specifically, the vulnerability exists in the Time Tracker Puncher plugin in versions prior to 1.20.0.5642. The root cause is improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands (CWE-89), where the plugin reuses code from other parts of the application but fails to sanitize a date parameter received via POST requests. This unsanitized input allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code, enabling UNION-based SQL injection and time-based blind SQL injection attacks. These injection techniques can be used to extract sensitive data from the database or cause delays to infer data presence. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction beyond sending crafted POST requests. The issue was fixed in version 1.20.0.5642, but users who cannot upgrade are advised to implement their own input validation and sanitization checks to mitigate the risk. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the nature of SQL injection attacks, which can compromise confidentiality and integrity of data stored in the application database.

For European organizations using Anuko Time Tracker versions prior to 1.20.0.5642, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive time tracking data, including employee work hours, project details, and potentially other linked information stored in the database. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could extract confidential business information, manipulate records, or disrupt service availability by causing database delays or errors. This could result in operational disruptions, loss of trust, and regulatory compliance issues, especially under GDPR where personal data protection is critical. The impact is heightened for organizations relying heavily on accurate time tracking for billing, payroll, or project management. Since the vulnerability does not require authentication, any attacker with network access to the affected web application could attempt exploitation, increasing the attack surface. Although no active exploits are reported, the ease of exploitation and the criticality of data involved make this a medium to high risk for affected entities.

1. Immediate upgrade to Anuko Time Tracker version 1.20.0.5642 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. For organizations unable to upgrade promptly, implement strict input validation and sanitization on the date parameter in POST requests, ensuring only valid date formats are accepted and all special SQL characters are neutralized. 3. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting the Puncher plugin endpoints. 4. Conduct regular code audits and penetration testing focusing on input handling in all plugins and modules. 5. Monitor application logs for unusual or malformed POST requests that could indicate attempted exploitation. 6. Restrict network access to the time tracking application to trusted internal users or VPNs to reduce exposure. 7. Backup databases regularly and ensure incident response plans are in place to quickly restore data integrity if compromise occurs.