CVE-2003-1203 in Site Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in index.php for Mambo Site Server 4.0.10 allows remote attackers to execute script on other clients via the ?option parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1203 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Mambo Site Server 4.0.10 content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php script and exploits a lack of proper input validation when processing the option parameter. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, creating a persistent threat vector that can compromise user sessions and data integrity across the affected web application.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The technical implementation involves the application failing to sanitize or escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic web page content. When the ?option parameter is processed without proper validation, malicious payloads can be executed within the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of victims. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic input validation failure where the application trusts user input without adequate sanitization measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a persistent threat that can be leveraged for sophisticated attacks. Attackers can craft malicious URLs containing script payloads that, when clicked by unsuspecting users, execute in their browsers with the privileges of the targeted users. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of web content, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability affects the entire user base of the Mambo Site Server installation, making it particularly dangerous as a single compromised parameter can potentially affect multiple users simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-supplied patches or upgrade to patched versions of Mambo Site Server. The recommended approach involves implementing proper parameter sanitization techniques that escape or filter special characters in user input before processing. Additionally, implementing a Content Security Policy (CSP) can provide an additional layer of protection by restricting the sources from which scripts can be executed. Security measures should also include regular security audits of web applications, input validation testing, and comprehensive staff training on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future development cycles.