CVE-2024-53636 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-24, found in the writefile.php component of Serosoft's Academia Student Information System (SIS) version EagleR-1.0.118. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization of the filePath parameter, which accepts '../' sequences, enabling attackers to traverse directories outside the intended upload directory. This allows an attacker with at least limited privileges (PR:L) to upload arbitrary files to locations outside the designated directory, potentially overwriting critical files or placing malicious scripts. Because the vulnerability is accessible remotely over the network (AV:N) and does not require user interaction (UI:N), it can be exploited by an authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code, compromising system integrity and confidentiality. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium), reflecting the moderate impact and the requirement for some privileges. No patches are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. The vulnerability's scope is changed (S:C), indicating that exploitation can affect resources beyond the vulnerable component. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to educational institutions relying on this SIS, as it could lead to unauthorized data access or system compromise.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions using Serosoft Academia SIS EagleR-1.0.118, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive student and staff information, undermining confidentiality. The ability to upload arbitrary files and execute code threatens system integrity, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate records or disrupt operations. Although availability impact is rated low, the compromise of integrity and confidentiality could have severe reputational and regulatory consequences, especially under GDPR. The requirement for limited privileges reduces the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or compromised accounts could exploit this vulnerability. The medium severity suggests a moderate but actionable risk, emphasizing the need for timely mitigation to prevent potential data breaches or system misuse within European educational environments.

1. Monitor Serosoft's official channels for patches addressing CVE-2024-53636 and apply them promptly upon release. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on the filePath parameter to disallow directory traversal sequences such as '../'. 3. Restrict file upload directories using server-side controls and enforce least privilege permissions to limit the impact of any uploaded files. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block path traversal attempts targeting writefile.php. 5. Conduct regular audits of file upload functionality and server directories to detect unauthorized files or modifications. 6. Enforce strong authentication and access controls to reduce the risk of exploitation by limited-privilege attackers. 7. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of this vulnerability and encourage vigilance for suspicious activity. 8. Consider network segmentation to isolate SIS systems from broader organizational networks, limiting lateral movement if compromised.