CVE-2002-0738 in MHonArc
Summary
by MITRE
MHonArc 2.5.2 and earlier does not properly filter Javascript from archived e-mail messages, which could allow remote attackers to execute script in web clients by (1) splitting the SCRIPT tag into smaller pieces, (2) including the script in a SRC argument to an IMG tag, or (3) using "&={script}" syntax.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0738 affects MHonArc versions 2.5.2 and earlier, representing a critical cross-site scripting weakness in email archiving software. This flaw stems from inadequate input validation and output filtering mechanisms within the application's processing of archived email messages. The vulnerability specifically targets the sanitization of javascript content that may be present in email communications, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject harmful script code into the archived email content. The issue manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize javascript code that appears in email messages, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary scripts within web browsers that view the archived content. This represents a classic server-side template injection vulnerability where user-controllable data is not adequately filtered before being rendered in a web context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through several distinct methods that bypass standard filtering mechanisms. Attackers can employ script splitting techniques to fragment SCRIPT tags into smaller components that evade simple pattern matching filters, allowing the javascript code to be reconstructed and executed within the victim's browser. Additionally, malicious scripts can be embedded within IMG tag SRC attributes, leveraging the fact that many web applications fail to properly sanitize these attributes when processing archived email content. The third exploitation vector involves using the "&={script}" syntax, which exploits weaknesses in how the application handles parameter parsing and content rendering. These methods collectively demonstrate a sophisticated approach to bypassing content filtering that relies on understanding the specific parsing behavior of the vulnerable software. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and represents a variant of the broader category of injection vulnerabilities that affect web applications processing user input.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0738 extends beyond simple script execution, potentially enabling attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive information, redirect users to malicious websites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. When email archives are viewed through web interfaces, any user who accesses the compromised content becomes a potential victim of the injected javascript code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where email archives are publicly accessible or where users may inadvertently click on malicious links within archived messages. The attack surface includes not only direct script execution but also the potential for more complex attacks such as credential theft, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors through the compromised email archiving system. Organizations relying on MHonArc for email archiving face significant security risks, as the vulnerability effectively allows attackers to compromise any user who views the affected archived content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate security gap and the underlying architectural weaknesses that enabled the flaw. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of MHonArc that properly implements javascript filtering and sanitization. Organizations should also implement additional layers of protection including web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious script patterns, content security policies that restrict script execution, and comprehensive input validation mechanisms that prevent malicious code from entering the system. The implementation of proper output encoding for all user-controllable data in web contexts serves as a crucial defensive measure against similar vulnerabilities. Security teams should also conduct thorough audits of email archiving systems to identify other potential injection points and ensure that all user input is properly sanitized before being rendered in web interfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that protect against multiple attack vectors. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring and alerting systems to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain regular security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in their systems. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and output sanitization in web applications, particularly those handling user-generated content that may be displayed in web browsers.