CVE-2002-1893 in Mail Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in ArGoSoft Mail Server Pro 1.8.1.9 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the e-mail message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2019
The CVE-2002-1893 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in ArGoSoft Mail Server Pro version 1.8.1.9 that exposes web applications to malicious code injection attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the email message handling functionality of the mail server software, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of user sessions. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the email processing components of the server, allowing malicious actors to craft specially formatted email messages that contain embedded malicious scripts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting weaknesses in web applications. This classification indicates that the vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly validate or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into dynamically generated web content. In the context of ArGoSoft Mail Server Pro, when email messages containing malicious scripts are processed and subsequently displayed to users through web interfaces, the embedded code executes in the victim's browser context, potentially compromising user sessions and data confidentiality. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through various attack vectors including email client interfaces, web-based administration panels, or any web interface that renders email content without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1893 extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive information, manipulate web content, and potentially escalate privileges within the affected system. When users access email messages through web interfaces, malicious scripts can capture session cookies, redirect users to phishing sites, or inject additional malicious content into the web application. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on ArGoSoft Mail Server Pro for email services, as it creates persistent security risks for all users who interact with email content through web-based interfaces. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that email servers often serve as trusted gateways for user interactions, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where email communication is frequent and sensitive data is regularly exchanged.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1893 should focus on implementing robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the affected mail server software. Organizations must ensure that all user-supplied data, particularly email content, undergoes proper sanitization before being rendered in web interfaces. This includes implementing comprehensive content filtering, escaping special characters, and employing secure coding practices that prevent malicious scripts from executing in user contexts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for credential access through spearphishing attachments, highlighting the potential for attackers to leverage this flaw for more sophisticated attacks. System administrators should prioritize updating to patched versions of ArGoSoft Mail Server Pro, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in email infrastructure components. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious email content and proper security hygiene practices remains crucial in defending against exploitation attempts that may leverage this cross-site scripting vulnerability.