Cross-Site Scripting in Class and Exam Timetabling System

Executive Summary

CVE-2026-15596 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in SourceCodester Class and Exam Timetabling System version 1.0. The vulnerability exists in an unknown function of the file /subject.php, where the 'subject' argument can be manipulated to inject malicious scripts.

This type of vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of a user's browser session. Since the attack can be launched remotely and the exploit is publicly available, it poses a risk to users who interact with the affected system.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Detection Guidance

This vulnerability affects the SourceCodester Class and Exam Timetabling System 1.0, specifically in the /subject.php file, where the 'subject' parameter is vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS). Detection can involve checking for the presence of the vulnerable software and testing for the XSS vulnerability.

• Identify if the vulnerable software is running on your network. You can use network scanning tools like Nmap to check for web servers hosting the application. Example command: nmap -sV --script=http-title <target_IP> to detect web applications.
• Manually test for the XSS vulnerability by crafting a request to the /subject.php file with a malicious payload in the 'subject' parameter. Example: curl -X GET 'http://<target>/subject.php?subject=<script>alert(1)</script>'.
• Use web vulnerability scanners like OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite to automate the detection of XSS vulnerabilities in the application.

Since the exploit is publicly available, you may also search for known exploit scripts or proof-of-concept code that targets this specific vulnerability.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Impact Analysis

If you are using the SourceCodester Class and Exam Timetabling System 1.0, this vulnerability could impact you in several ways:

• Attackers could steal sensitive information, such as session cookies or authentication tokens, by tricking users into visiting a malicious link or page.
• Malicious scripts could be used to deface the website, redirect users to phishing sites, or perform actions on behalf of the user without their consent.
• Since the exploit is publicly available, the risk of exploitation is higher, as attackers do not need advanced technical knowledge to execute the attack.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could affect compliance with several standards and regulations, depending on the context in which the system is used:

• GDPR: If the system processes personal data of EU citizens, an XSS vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access or disclosure of personal data, violating GDPR's requirements for data protection and security. This could result in fines or legal action.
• HIPAA: If the system is used in a healthcare environment and handles protected health information (PHI), an XSS vulnerability could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of PHI, leading to non-compliance with HIPAA's security rules.
• Other standards like PCI DSS (if payment data is involved) or industry-specific regulations may also be impacted, as XSS vulnerabilities can undermine the security controls required by these frameworks.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate this cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in SourceCodester Class and Exam Timetabling System 1.0, follow these immediate steps:

• Apply input validation and output encoding to the 'subject' parameter in the /subject.php file. Ensure that user-supplied input is sanitized before being processed or displayed.
• If a patch or update is available from the vendor, apply it immediately to fix the vulnerability.
• Restrict access to the vulnerable application by implementing network-level controls such as firewalls or access control lists (ACLs) to limit exposure.
• Monitor web application logs for suspicious activity, such as attempts to inject malicious scripts into the 'subject' parameter.
• Consider deploying a web application firewall (WAF) to block XSS attacks targeting the vulnerable parameter.

If the application is no longer needed, disable or remove it to eliminate the risk entirely.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0