CVE-2024-55268 identifies a reflected Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the PHPGurukul COVID 19 Testing Management System version 1.0. The vulnerability exists in the /covidtms/registered-user-testing.php endpoint, specifically through the regmobilenumber parameter, which fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input. This allows an attacker to craft a malicious URL containing executable JavaScript code that is reflected back in the HTTP response. When a victim clicks on such a URL, the injected script executes in their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the user. The vulnerability requires no authentication (AV:N), has low attack complexity (AC:L), and user interaction is required (UI:R), with a scope change (S:C) indicating that the vulnerability affects resources beyond the vulnerable component. The impact affects confidentiality and integrity but not availability. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a credible risk to users of the affected system. The root cause is inadequate input validation and output encoding of the regmobilenumber parameter, a common weakness categorized under CWE-79. Mitigation involves implementing strict input validation, context-aware output encoding, and adopting Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to reduce the risk of script execution. Since no patch links are currently available, organizations must monitor vendor advisories closely for updates.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the potential compromise of user confidentiality and integrity within the PHPGurukul COVID 19 Testing Management System. Successful exploitation can lead to theft of session cookies, enabling attackers to impersonate legitimate users, access sensitive personal health information, or manipulate test registration data. This can undermine trust in the COVID-19 testing process and potentially disrupt public health efforts. Although availability is not directly affected, the reputational damage and regulatory consequences from data breaches could be significant. Organizations relying on this system, especially healthcare providers and government agencies managing COVID-19 testing, face risks of data leakage and unauthorized access. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted phishing campaigns could be effective. The reflected XSS nature means attacks are transient but can be highly effective against unaware users. The vulnerability also raises compliance concerns under data protection regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA due to exposure of personal health data.

To mitigate CVE-2024-55268, organizations should immediately implement strict input validation on the regmobilenumber parameter, ensuring only expected numeric or formatted input is accepted. Employ context-sensitive output encoding (e.g., HTML entity encoding) before reflecting any user input in responses to prevent script execution. Deploy Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts in browsers. Conduct thorough code reviews and security testing focusing on all user input handling in the affected application. Monitor for phishing attempts that may leverage this vulnerability to trick users into clicking malicious links. Since no official patches are currently available, consider temporary workarounds such as disabling or restricting access to the vulnerable endpoint if feasible. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans in case of exploitation. Engage with the vendor for timely patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. Educate users about the risks of clicking untrusted links related to the COVID-19 testing system.