Open Journal Systems Technology Detection Scanner

Open Journal Systems (OJS) is a widely used open-source software application for managing and publishing scholarly journals. It is developed by the Public Knowledge Project and designed to make open access publishing a feasible option for more journals. Institutions such as libraries, universities, and research institutes often employ OJS for creating online publications. The platform allows users to manage every stage of the refereed publishing process, from submissions and peer review to online publication and indexing. Its adaptability and customization options make it a preferred choice among academic communities aiming to manage their publications efficiently. Many journals worldwide have adopted OJS to meet the growing demand for open-access resources and streamline their management processes.

Detected in this scanner pertains to the identification of the Open Journal Systems platform in digital environments. It works by detecting specific meta tags within web pages that indicate the presence and version of OJS. By extracting these details, the scanner helps site administrators and security professionals understand whether their assets are using this software. Recognizing the presence of OJS assists in contextualizing potential vulnerabilities related to the platform. The detection of the software’s version can inform whether it is susceptible to known vulnerabilities, thereby allowing preemptive actions to enhance security. Knowing this information is fundamental for maintaining an updated and secure publication system.

The scanner performs its detection by carrying out GET requests to web pages and examining the HTML content for meta tags associated with Open Journal Systems. It specifically looks for a generator meta tag that reveals the software's name and version. Such information is valuable for discovering outdated installations that might require updates. The scan detects when the status code of a page is 200, suggesting the queried page is accessible, and then parses the page content. Regular expressions are used to accurately identify and extract the software version from the meta tag. By automating this process, the scanner aids in efficient inventorying and assessment of digital assets relying on OJS.

When the vulnerability of using outdated or unprotected installations of Open Journal Systems is exploited, it could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or service disruptions. Attackers may leverage known flaws in older software versions to infiltrate systems, compromise sensitive information, or hinder journal operations. Exploits could range from defacement of journal content to database theft or manipulation. Institutions may face reputational damage alongside the operational disruptions caused by such breaches. It’s imperative that administrators understand the presence and version of their software to mitigate these risks proactively.