CVE-2022-45529 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in AeroCMS version 0.0.1, specifically within the \admin\includes\edit_post.php file. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization or validation of the post_category_id parameter, which is used in SQL queries. An attacker with high privileges (authentication required) can exploit this flaw by injecting malicious SQL code through the post_category_id parameter. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive database information, compromising confidentiality. The vulnerability does not impact data integrity or availability directly, and no user interaction beyond authentication is necessary. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.9 (medium severity), with the vector indicating network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring privileges (PR:H), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), no integrity impact (I:N), and no availability impact (A:N). No patches or known exploits in the wild have been reported as of the publication date (November 22, 2022). The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command). AeroCMS is a content management system, and this vulnerability could allow attackers to extract sensitive data from the backend database if they have authenticated access to the admin panel, potentially leading to data leakage or further exploitation depending on the data accessed.

For European organizations using AeroCMS, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the confidentiality of stored data. Since exploitation requires authenticated access with high privileges, the threat is more significant if internal accounts are compromised or if insider threats exist. The ability to extract sensitive database information could lead to exposure of personal data, intellectual property, or business-critical information, potentially violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. Although the vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability, the data leakage could facilitate further attacks or reputational damage. Organizations in sectors with high regulatory scrutiny, such as finance, healthcare, and government, could face compliance risks and penalties if sensitive data is exposed. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of a publicly known vulnerability necessitates prompt attention to prevent future exploitation.

Implement strict input validation and parameterized queries or prepared statements for all database interactions involving post_category_id to prevent SQL Injection. Restrict administrative access to AeroCMS to trusted personnel and enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication (MFA). Conduct regular audits of user privileges to ensure that only necessary accounts have high-level access to the admin panel. Monitor database query logs and application logs for unusual or suspicious activity that could indicate attempted exploitation. If possible, isolate the AeroCMS admin interface behind a VPN or internal network to reduce exposure to external attackers. Develop and deploy patches or updates that address the vulnerability once available; if no official patch exists, consider applying custom fixes or workarounds to sanitize inputs. Educate administrators and developers about secure coding practices and the risks of SQL Injection vulnerabilities. Perform regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on web application vulnerabilities, especially in CMS platforms.