SQL Injection
SQL injection exploits the way applications construct database queries by mixing user input directly into SQL statements.
How It Works
SQL injection exploits the way applications construct database queries by mixing user input directly into SQL statements. When developers concatenate untrusted data into queries without proper sanitization, attackers can inject SQL syntax that changes the query's logic. For example, entering ' OR '1'='1 into a login form might transform SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='input' into a query that always returns true, bypassing authentication.
Attackers follow a methodical process: first probing input fields with special characters like quotes or semicolons to trigger database errors, then identifying whether the application is vulnerable. Once confirmed, they escalate by injecting commands to extract data (UNION-based attacks to merge results from other tables), manipulate records, or probe the database structure. Blind SQL injection variants work without visible error messages—boolean-based attacks infer data by observing application behavior changes, while time-based attacks use database sleep functions to confirm successful injection through response delays.
Advanced scenarios include second-order injection, where malicious input is stored in the database and later executed in a different context, and out-of-band attacks that exfiltrate data through DNS queries or HTTP requests when direct data retrieval isn't possible. Some database systems enable attackers to execute operating system commands through built-in functions like MySQL's LOAD_FILE or SQL Server's xp_cmdshell, escalating from database compromise to full server control.
Impact
- Complete data breach — extraction of entire database contents including credentials, personal information, and proprietary data
- Authentication bypass — logging in as any user without knowing passwords
- Data manipulation — unauthorized modification or deletion of critical records
- Privilege escalation — granting administrative rights to attacker-controlled accounts
- Remote code execution — leveraging database features to run operating system commands and compromise the underlying server
- Lateral movement — using compromised database credentials to access other connected systems
Real-World Examples
FreePBX's CVE-2025-66039 demonstrated a complete attack chain where SQL injection across 11 parameters in four different endpoints allowed attackers to write malicious entries into the cron_jobs table. When the system's scheduler executed these entries, the injected SQL transformed into operating system commands, granting full server control. The vulnerability required no authentication, making it immediately exploitable.
E-commerce platforms have suffered massive breaches through shopping cart SQL injection, where attackers inserted skimming code into stored procedures that executed during checkout, harvesting credit card data from thousands of transactions. Healthcare systems have been compromised through patient portal vulnerabilities, exposing millions of medical records when attackers injected UNION queries to merge data from supposedly isolated tables.
Mitigation
- Parameterized queries (prepared statements) — separates SQL logic from data, making injection syntactically impossible
- Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) frameworks — abstracts database interactions with built-in protections when used correctly
- Strict input validation — whitelist acceptable characters and formats, reject suspicious patterns
- Least privilege database accounts — applications should use credentials with minimal necessary permissions
- Web Application Firewall (WAF) — detects and blocks common injection patterns as a secondary defense layer
- Database activity monitoring — alerts on unusual query patterns or privilege escalation attempts
Recent CVEs (16090)
The tagDiv Opt-In Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to time-based SQL Injection via the ‘subscriptionCouponId’ parameter in all versions up to, and including, 1.7 due to insufficient. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul Online Nurse Hiring System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Curfew e-Pass Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Student Record System 3.20. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Online Nurse Hiring System 1.0 and classified as critical.php. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A SQL injection vulnerability in manage_damage.php in Sourcecodester Computer Laboratory Management System v1.0 allows an authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the "id". Rated high severity (CVSS 8.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in PHPGurukul Rail Pass Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
SQL injection vulnerability in Bookgy. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
SQL injection vulnerability in Bookgy. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Slims (Senayan Library Management Systems) 9 Bulian V9.6.1 is vulnerable to SQL Injection in admin/modules/master_file/coll_type.php. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in PHPGurukul Notice Board System 1.0.php. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Projectworlds Online Examination System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Rail Pass Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in projectworlds Online Examination System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in PHPGurukul Nipah Virus Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Pre-School Enrollment System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in OpenText™ Digital Asset Management. Rated low severity (CVSS 2.1), this vulnerability is no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in PHPGurukul Old Age Home Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in PHPGurukul Nipah Virus Testing Management System 1.0.php. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in itsourcecode Placement Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in itsourcecode Placement Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in itsourcecode Placement Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in code-projects Patient Record Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Old Age Home Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Art Gallery Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Art Gallery Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in CodeAstro Membership Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in PHPGurukul COVID19 Testing Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in codeprojects News Publishing Site Dashboard 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in opplus springboot-admin 1.0 and classified as critical.xml. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in 201206030 novel-cloud 1.4.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
There are SQL injection vulnerabilities in multiple interfaces of the GoldenDB database product. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
There is a SQL injection vulnerability in the GoldenDB database product. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in codeprojects Patient Record Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Codeastro Bus Ticket Booking System v1.0 is vulnerable to SQL injection via the kodetiket parameter in /BusTicket-CI/tiket/cekorder. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in EasyVirt DCScope <= 8.6.4 and CO2Scope <= 1.3.4 allows remote authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) timeago, (2) user, (3). Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
In Sherpa Orchestrator 141851, the web application lacks protection against CSRF attacks, with resultant effects of an attacker conducting XSS attacks, adding a new user or role, or exploiting a SQL. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.4), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required. No vendor patch available.
In Sherpa Orchestrator 141851, multiple time-based blind SQL injections can be performed by an authenticated user. Rated low severity (CVSS 3.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable. No vendor patch available.
ITC Systems Multiplan/Matrix OneCard platform v3.7.4.1002 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the component Forgotpassword.aspx. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in M A Vinoth Kumar Frontend Dashboard allows SQL Injection.2.5. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in weDevs Appsero Helper allows SQL Injection.3.4. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in code-projects Online Class and Exam Scheduling System 1.0 in /Scheduling/pages/profile_update.php. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in Code-Projects Online Class and Exam Scheduling System 1.0 in the file /Scheduling/pages/class_save.php. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Centreon centreon-web (User configuration form modules) allows SQL Injection. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.2), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
The ELEX WooCommerce Advanced Bulk Edit Products, Prices & Attributes plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to SQL Injection via the 'attribute_value_filter' parameter in all versions up to, and. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
PostHog ClickHouse Table Functions SQL Injection Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.0), this vulnerability is low attack complexity.
XWiki is a generic wiki platform. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and EPSS exploitation probability 26.9%.
XWiki is a generic wiki platform. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.6), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
MuM (aka Mensch und Maschine) MapEdit (aka mapedit-web) 24.2.3 is vulnerable to SQL Injection that allows an attacker to execute malicious SQL statements that control a web application's database. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Sacco Management system v1.0 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the password parameter at /sacco/ajax.php. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Centreon BAM (Boolean KPi Listing modules) allows SQL Injection. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.2), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
CWE-89: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection'). Rated high severity (CVSS 8.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
SQL injection in the Message Filter for Contact Form 7 WordPress plugin (versions through 1.6.3.2) enables authenticated high-privileged users to manipulate backend database queries, potentially exposing or modifying the entire WordPress database. Discovered and reported by Patchstack (audit@patchstack.com), the flaw carries a CVSS score of 7.2, with the PR:H metric confirming that exploitation is gated behind administrator-level credentials. No public exploit code and no active exploitation have been identified at time of analysis.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Bob Watu Quiz allows SQL Injection.4.3. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.6), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability in codepeople Appointment Booking Calendar allows SQL Injection.3.92. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.2), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in xxyopen Novel-Plus 5.1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in markparticle WebServer up to 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in markparticle WebServer up to 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
ManageWiki is a MediaWiki extension allowing users to manage wikis. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.0), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available.
A SQL injection in VirtueMart component 1.0.0 - 4.4.7 for Joomla allows authenticated attackers (administrator) to execute arbitrary SQL commands in the product management area in backend. Rated low severity (CVSS 3.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Men Salon Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability was found in PHPGurukul Men Salon Management System 1.0 and classified as critical.php?viewid=11. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul Men Salon Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in PHPGurukul Men Salon Management System 1.0 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in webpy web.py 0.70. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in SourceCodester Online Eyewear Shop 1.0.php?f=delete_stock. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability has been found in WCMS 11 and classified as critical. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in WCMS 11. Rated medium severity (CVSS 6.9), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in SeaCMS up to 13.3. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.1), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
The JobWP - Job Board, Job Listing, Career Page and Recruitment Plugin plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to SQL Injection via the 'jobwp_upload_resume' parameter in all versions up to, and. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. Epss exploitation probability 22.8% and no vendor patch available.
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in PHPGurukul Men Salon Management System 1.0. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
NamelessMC is a free, easy to use & powerful website software for Minecraft servers. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.6), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available.
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in SeaCMS up to 13.3.php?action=delall. Rated medium severity (CVSS 5.1), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. Public exploit code available and no vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Pantherius Modal Survey.0.2.0.1. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
A SQL Injection vulnerability exists in the `u` parameter of the progress-body-weight.php endpoint of Dietiqa App v1.0.20. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.8), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
FOXCMS <= V1.25 is vulnerable to SQL Injection via $param['title'] in /admin/util/Field.php. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.2), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
In FOXCMS <=1.25, the installdb.php file has a time - based blind SQL injection vulnerability. Rated high severity (CVSS 7.2), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Quentn.com GmbH Quentn WP allows SQL Injection.2.8. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Stylemix Cost Calculator Builder allows SQL Injection.2.65. Rated critical severity (CVSS 9.3), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, no authentication required, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Metagauss ProfileGrid allows SQL Injection.9.4.8. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in taskbuilder Taskbuilder allows Blind SQL Injection.0.1. Rated high severity (CVSS 8.5), this vulnerability is remotely exploitable, low attack complexity. No vendor patch available.
Quick Facts
- Typical Severity
- HIGH
- Category
- web
- Total CVEs
- 16090