CVE-2016-9488
CWE-89Published: June 5, 2018· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
ManageEngine Applications Manager versions 12 and 13 before build 13200 suffer from remote SQL injection vulnerabilities. An unauthenticated attacker is able to access the URL /servlet/MenuHandlerServlet, which is vulnerable to SQL injection. The attacker could extract users' password hashes, which are MD5 hashes without salt, and, depending on the database type and its configuration, could also execute operating system commands using SQL queries.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2016-9488 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2016-9488. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.
From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-89): SQL injection vulnerabilities allow attackers to manipulate database queries, potentially exposing or modifying sensitive data.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (10)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-89)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2016-9488 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts