CVE-2024-55016 identifies a critical SQL Injection vulnerability in the PHPGurukul Student Record Management System version 3.20, specifically targeting the login.php script's id and password parameters. SQL Injection occurs when user-supplied input is improperly sanitized and directly embedded into SQL queries, allowing attackers to alter the intended query logic. In this case, an attacker can craft malicious input to bypass authentication mechanisms or extract sensitive information from the backend database, such as student records, grades, or personal data. The vulnerability stems from the absence of parameterized queries or prepared statements and insufficient input validation. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and thus could be targeted by attackers. The lack of an official patch or update increases the urgency for organizations to implement mitigations. The vulnerability affects confidentiality by exposing sensitive data, integrity by allowing unauthorized data modification, and potentially availability if exploited to disrupt services. The attack vector requires only network access to the login interface and no prior authentication, making exploitation relatively straightforward for remote attackers. The absence of a CVSS score necessitates a severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions using PHPGurukul Student Record Management System, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of student data and institutional records. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive personal information, academic records, and potentially allow attackers to alter or delete data, undermining trust and compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR. The breach of student data can result in reputational damage, legal penalties, and operational disruptions. Additionally, if attackers leverage this vulnerability to gain broader system access, it could facilitate further lateral movement within institutional networks. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as public disclosure increases attacker awareness. European organizations with limited cybersecurity maturity or those relying on legacy or open-source educational management systems without active maintenance are particularly vulnerable. The impact is amplified in countries with large public education sectors and digital record-keeping practices.

To mitigate CVE-2024-55016, organizations should immediately audit their PHPGurukul Student Record Management System deployments and restrict access to the login.php interface where possible. Implement input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data, especially the id and password parameters. Refactor the login code to use parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL Injection. If source code modification is not feasible, deploy Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with SQL Injection detection and prevention rules tailored to the application’s traffic patterns. Monitor logs for unusual login attempts or SQL error messages indicative of injection attempts. Educate IT staff and administrators about this vulnerability and encourage prompt patching once an official update is released. Additionally, segment the network to limit database access only to necessary application servers and enforce strict access controls. Regularly back up critical data and verify backup integrity to enable recovery in case of data tampering or loss. Consider conducting penetration testing to identify other potential injection points or vulnerabilities within the system.