Django 5.1.13 Patches Critical SQL Injection Vulnerability (CVE Pending)

Django Releases Emergency Patch for SQL Injection Flaw in 5.1.13

The Django Project has released version 5.1.13 to address a critical SQL injection vulnerability in its Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) layer. The flaw, disclosed via Exploit-DB (ID: 52456), could allow attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries on vulnerable Django applications.

Technical Details

While full technical specifics remain under embargo pending CVE assignment, the vulnerability affects Django's ORM query construction. Security researchers indicate the flaw stems from improper parameter sanitization in certain query operations, potentially enabling:

• Database content exfiltration via crafted input
• Privilege escalation through malicious SQL execution
• Remote code execution in configurations with database functions

The exploit requires user-controlled input to reach vulnerable query parameters, making web applications with public-facing forms particularly at risk.

Impact Analysis

Affected Versions

• Django 5.1.0 through 5.1.12
• Earlier versions may be vulnerable if using similar ORM patterns

Risk Factors

• CVSS score pending (expected High/Critical)
• Exploitable without authentication in many configurations
• Public exploit code available (Exploit-DB 52456)

Security teams should note that successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, including:

• Theft of sensitive application data
• Modification or deletion of records
• Potential server takeover via database functions

Mitigation Recommendations

1. Immediate Actions

   • Upgrade to Django 5.1.13 or later
   • Review Exploit-DB 52456 for detection signatures

2. Defensive Measures

   • Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to block suspicious SQL patterns
   • Audit ORM queries for dynamic parameter usage
   • Enable database logging to detect anomalous queries

3. Monitoring

   • Watch for unexpected database connections
   • Alert on unusual query patterns or data access

The Django team has not observed active exploitation in the wild as of this release, but the public availability of exploit code significantly increases risk. Organizations should prioritize patching within 24 hours for internet-facing applications.

For applications unable to upgrade immediately, consider temporarily disabling vulnerable ORM features or implementing additional input validation as a stopgap measure.