CVE-2024-42005 is a critical SQL injection vulnerability identified in Django web framework versions before 5.0.8 and 4.2.15. The flaw exists in the QuerySet API, specifically in the values() and values_list() methods when used on models containing JSONField attributes. These methods allow developers to specify column aliases by passing arguments derived from JSON object keys. Due to insufficient sanitization and validation of these JSON keys, an attacker can craft malicious JSON objects with specially designed keys that inject arbitrary SQL code into the query's column alias context. This injection can manipulate the underlying SQL query executed against the database, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands. The vulnerability does not require any authentication or user interaction, making it remotely exploitable over the network. The impact includes unauthorized data disclosure, data modification, and potential denial of service by corrupting or deleting data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command). Although no public exploits are currently known, the critical CVSS score of 9.8 reflects the high risk posed by this vulnerability. The issue was reserved on July 26, 2024, and publicly disclosed on August 7, 2024. No official patches or advisories are linked in the provided data, but upgrading to Django 5.0.8 or 4.2.15 or later is the recommended remediation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-42005 can be severe. Organizations relying on Django-based web applications that utilize JSONField in their data models are at risk of remote SQL injection attacks that can lead to full database compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive personal data, intellectual property, or critical business information, violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. The integrity of data can be compromised, leading to data corruption or unauthorized modifications, which can disrupt business operations and damage trust. Availability may also be affected if attackers execute destructive SQL commands or cause database crashes. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure in Europe are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on secure data handling and regulatory compliance. The ease of exploitation without authentication increases the urgency for rapid mitigation to prevent potential breaches and regulatory penalties.

1. Immediately upgrade all affected Django installations to version 5.0.8, 4.2.15, or later where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Audit all codebases for usage of QuerySet.values() and values_list() methods on models with JSONField attributes, especially where JSON keys are passed as column aliases. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on JSON data before it is used in query construction to prevent injection of malicious keys. 4. Employ database query logging and monitoring to detect unusual or suspicious SQL queries that may indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Use Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block SQL injection patterns targeting JSONField usage in Django. 6. Conduct penetration testing focusing on injection vectors involving JSONField and ORM query methods. 7. Educate developers on secure coding practices related to ORM usage and JSON data handling. 8. Isolate critical databases and restrict database user permissions to minimize impact if exploitation occurs.