CVE-2024-56158 is a critical SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the XWiki platform, a widely used generic wiki software. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands (CWE-89). Specifically, the XWiki query validator does not sanitize Oracle functions such as DBMS_XMLGEN and DBMS_XMLQUERY, which can be used within Hibernate Query Language (HQL) queries. Hibernate allows native functions in HQL, and because the validator overlooks these, an attacker can inject arbitrary SQL commands. This enables execution of any SQL query on the underlying Oracle database without authentication or user interaction, posing a severe risk. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of XWiki prior to 15.10.16, 16.4.7, and 16.10.2, with patches released in these versions. The CVSS 4.0 score of 9.3 indicates a critical severity, with network attack vector, no privileges or user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the ease of exploitation and potential damage make this a significant threat. Organizations using vulnerable XWiki versions should prioritize upgrading to patched releases to prevent exploitation.

The impact of CVE-2024-56158 on European organizations can be severe. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the Oracle database backend of XWiki, potentially leading to full data disclosure, unauthorized data modification, or deletion, and disruption of service availability. This compromises the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical information stored in XWiki instances. Organizations relying on XWiki for documentation, collaboration, or knowledge management may face operational disruptions and data breaches. Given the critical nature of the vulnerability and the lack of required authentication, attackers can remotely exploit vulnerable systems, increasing the risk of widespread compromise. This is particularly concerning for sectors with sensitive data such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure in Europe. The potential for lateral movement and further network compromise also exists if attackers leverage this vulnerability as an initial foothold.

To mitigate CVE-2024-56158, European organizations should immediately upgrade all affected XWiki instances to the fixed versions 15.10.16, 16.4.7, or 16.10.2 as applicable. If immediate upgrade is not feasible, organizations should implement strict network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict access to XWiki instances only to trusted internal users. Disable or restrict the use of Oracle functions like DBMS_XMLGEN and DBMS_XMLQUERY if possible at the database level. Conduct thorough code reviews and audits of any custom HQL queries to ensure no unsafe native functions are used. Monitor logs for unusual query patterns indicative of SQL injection attempts. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules tailored to detect and block SQL injection payloads targeting Oracle-specific functions. Regularly back up XWiki data and test restoration procedures to minimize impact in case of compromise. Finally, raise user awareness about the risks and ensure incident response plans include scenarios involving SQL injection attacks on collaboration platforms.