CVE-2022-24844 is a medium-severity SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the flipped-aurora gin-vue-admin project, a full-stack backstage management system that uses Vue.js for the frontend and Gin (a Go web framework) for the backend. The vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to 2.5.1 and arises from improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands (CWE-89) within the server/service/system/sys_auto_code_pgsql.go file. This flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code into PostgreSQL database queries due to insufficient input sanitization or parameterization. Exploitation requires that the target system uses PostgreSQL as its database backend and that the user is authenticated via JWT login, indicating that some level of user authentication is necessary before the vulnerability can be triggered. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no workarounds exist aside from upgrading to version 2.5.1 or later, where the issue has been fixed. The vulnerability could enable an attacker with valid JWT credentials to manipulate SQL queries, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, data modification, or disruption of database availability. The flaw is limited to PostgreSQL deployments of gin-vue-admin and does not affect other database backends. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on April 13, 2022, and has been enriched with CISA data, underscoring its relevance to cybersecurity stakeholders.

For European organizations using gin-vue-admin versions prior to 2.5.1 with PostgreSQL databases, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized data exposure, data tampering, or denial of service through malicious SQL injection attacks. Since gin-vue-admin is a backstage management system, it is likely used to manage internal business processes, user data, or configuration settings. Exploitation could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive business data, potentially leading to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Availability could also be affected if attackers execute destructive SQL commands. The requirement for JWT authentication somewhat limits the attack surface to authenticated users, but insider threats or compromised credentials could still enable exploitation. The absence of known exploits suggests limited active targeting, but the vulnerability remains a latent risk, especially in sectors with high-value data such as finance, healthcare, and government. Given the reliance on PostgreSQL, organizations using other databases are not impacted. Overall, the vulnerability could facilitate moderate to significant operational and reputational damage if exploited.

European organizations should immediately verify if they are running gin-vue-admin versions earlier than 2.5.1 with PostgreSQL as the backend. The primary mitigation is to upgrade to version 2.5.1 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. In addition, organizations should conduct a thorough audit of user accounts with JWT authentication to detect any suspicious activity or unauthorized access. Implementing strict access controls and monitoring for anomalous SQL query patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. Employing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection payloads targeting the vulnerable endpoints can provide an additional layer of defense. Developers should review and enforce secure coding practices, including the use of parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection. Regular security training for developers and administrators on secure authentication and input validation is recommended. Finally, organizations should maintain an incident response plan to quickly address any detected exploitation attempts.