CVE-2022-40928 is a high-severity SQL Injection vulnerability identified in an Online Leave Management System version 1.0. The vulnerability exists in the endpoint /leave_system/classes/Master.php with the function parameter f=delete_application. SQL Injection (CWE-89) occurs when untrusted input is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into SQL queries, allowing an attacker to manipulate the database query logic. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker with high privileges (PR:H) and no user interaction (UI:N) to remotely execute arbitrary SQL commands over the network (AV:N) without authentication bypass. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system's data, as attackers can extract sensitive information, modify or delete data, or disrupt service availability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.2, reflecting a high severity due to the ease of exploitation, the critical nature of the affected functionality (leave management systems often contain sensitive employee data), and the potential for significant impact on business operations. No patches or vendor information are currently available, and no known exploits in the wild have been reported. The lack of vendor/project details and affected versions beyond v1.0 limits precise identification but highlights the need for immediate attention in environments using this or similar leave management solutions.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of employee data, including personal information, leave records, and potentially payroll-related data. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized data disclosure, manipulation of leave records, or denial of service, impacting HR operations and compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR. The disruption of leave management processes can affect workforce planning and operational continuity. Additionally, unauthorized access to sensitive employee data could result in reputational damage and legal penalties under European data privacy laws. Organizations relying on this or similar leave management systems should consider the risk of targeted attacks, especially from insiders or external attackers who have obtained elevated privileges.

Given the absence of official patches, European organizations should immediately conduct a thorough code review of the affected endpoint to identify and remediate unsafe SQL query constructions. Implement parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL Injection. Restrict access to the vulnerable endpoint to only trusted and authenticated users with the minimum necessary privileges. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with SQL Injection detection rules to provide a temporary protective layer. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on input validation and injection flaws. Monitor logs for suspicious database query patterns or unusual activity on the leave management system. If possible, isolate the leave management system from critical internal networks and sensitive data stores until the vulnerability is remediated. Finally, maintain an inventory of all HR-related applications to identify and prioritize patching or replacement of vulnerable systems.