CVE-2003-0292 in Traffic-server
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Inktomi Traffic-Server 5.5.1 allows remote attackers to insert arbitrary web script or HTML into an error page that appears to come from the domain that the client is visiting, aka "Man-in-the-Middle" XSS.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-0292 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within Inktomi Traffic-Server version 5.5.1 that enables remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML content into error pages. This vulnerability operates under the classification of CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, where improper input validation allows attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the affected website. The flaw manifests when the server processes error responses without adequate sanitization of user-supplied input, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the server's handling of error messages that appear to originate from the legitimate domain that users are visiting. When a user encounters an error page generated by the Traffic-Server, the attacker can manipulate the input to inject malicious scripts that will execute in the victim's browser. This particular variant is categorized as a man-in-the-middle XSS attack because the malicious content appears to come from the trusted domain, making it more difficult for users to detect the security compromise. The attack vector leverages the server's trust relationship with users, where the error page is perceived as legitimate due to its domain attribution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious websites. Attackers can craft payloads that steal cookies, session tokens, or personal information from users who visit the compromised error pages. The vulnerability's effectiveness is enhanced by the fact that users are more likely to trust content appearing from familiar domains, making social engineering aspects more potent. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which covers the use of cross-site scripting as a method for initial access and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the Traffic-Server configuration. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly sanitized before being incorporated into error messages or any server-generated content. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection layers against script execution, while regular security updates and patches should be applied immediately upon availability. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions can help detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training for administrators can help prevent configuration errors that might exacerbate the vulnerability's impact. The fix typically involves updating to a patched version of Inktomi Traffic-Server or implementing proper input sanitization measures that prevent malicious content from being rendered in error pages.