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CVE-2025-1135: Critical Vulnerability in ChurchCRM

A critical SQL Injection vulnerability in ChurchCRM 5.13.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries. Organizations must prioritize patching to prevent data compromise.

CRITICALCVSS 9.3 · Published February 19, 2025

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A vulnerability exists in ChurchCRM 5.13.0 and prior that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL queries by exploiting a boolean-based and time-based blind SQL Injection vulnerability in the BatchWinnerEntry functionality. The CurrentFundraiser parameter is directly concatenated into an SQL query without sufficient sanitization, allowing an attacker to manipulate database queries and execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data exfiltration, modification, or deletion. Please note the vulnerability requires Administrator privileges.

This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.3, categorizing it as critical. The implications for organizations can be severe, as unauthorized access to sensitive data could occur if left unaddressed. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to manipulate database queries, leading to significant data breaches. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.

As of the last update, there is no known public exploit, but the severity and nature of this vulnerability necessitate swift action. Organizations that utilize ChurchCRM should be aware of their risk posture and act accordingly.

This vulnerability illustrates a critical area of concern in application security, particularly related to SQL Injection flaws. Regular security assessments and proper input sanitization practices are essential to mitigate such risks.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability in question allows an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL commands due to insufficient input validation. Specifically, the vulnerability pertains to the CurrentFundraiser parameter, which is exploited through a blind SQL injection technique.

The CVSS 4.0 score of 9.3 indicates a critical risk level, with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based and requires high privileges, making it imperative for organizations to manage user permissions carefully.

The vulnerability was published on February 19, 2025, and has been classified under CWE-89, which pertains to SQL Injection flaws. Organizations should ensure they are running patched versions of ChurchCRM to protect against this vulnerability.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of user input. The CurrentFundraiser parameter is concatenated directly into SQL queries, making it susceptible to manipulation. The attack complexity is considered low, and no user interaction is required, enabling attackers to exploit the vulnerability remotely.

The attacker requires high privileges, which indicates that the exploitation may typically require access to an administrator account. However, once access is gained, the impacts are profound: potential data exfiltration, modification, or even complete database deletion. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are rated high.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data and critical system functions. The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to severe reputational damage and legal ramifications, particularly if sensitive user data is compromised.

The blast radius for this vulnerability can be significant, especially for organizations that rely heavily on ChurchCRM for managing sensitive information. Given the critical nature of the data involved, organizations should treat this issue with the highest urgency.

The urgency for remediation is critical; organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Regular security audits and application security assessments are essential strategies to minimize the risk of such vulnerabilities.

Exploitation Status

Signal

Status

Known Exploit

No

Public PoC

No

Actively Exploited

No

Ransomware Use

No

Affected Versions

The vulnerability affects all versions of ChurchCRM prior to 5.13.0. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest version to mitigate this risk.

Mitigation & Remediation

Organizations should apply the latest patches provided by ChurchCRM. If immediate patching is not feasible, consider implementing input validation mechanisms to sanitize user inputs. Additionally, restricting access to the BatchWinnerEntry functionality to trusted users may help mitigate the risk.

For ongoing protection, organizations should consider performing regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify potential vulnerabilities. Engaging in comprehensive security practices will help reduce the attack surface and enhance overall security posture.

For more information on how to secure your systems, consider exploring our penetration testing services.

Detection Guidance

Organizations should monitor logs for unusual SQL queries and behavioral anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, network signatures that identify abnormal database activity should be established to enhance detection capabilities.

Changes to system configurations, particularly in the database, should be closely monitored. Any unexpected modifications or access attempts by unauthorized users should trigger alerts for further investigation.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

The long-term significance of CVE-2025-1135 lies in its demonstration of the critical importance of secure coding practices, particularly in terms of input validation and handling user data. The pattern of SQL injection vulnerabilities highlights the necessity for comprehensive security measures during application development.

Security teams should draw lessons from this incident to reinforce the need for regular security audits and assessments. This vulnerability serves as a stark reminder that even minor oversights in input handling can have far-reaching consequences.

To effectively manage vulnerabilities, organizations should implement a robust vulnerability management program. Additionally, continuous security awareness and training should be instilled within development teams to proactively address potential vulnerabilities.

For further insights, organizations may find value in our resources on penetration testing methodology and the importance of maintaining security during software development.

Organizations looking to enhance their security posture should also consider our services in web application penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities effectively.

Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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