CVE-2003-1519 in Clustering Engine
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Vivisimo clustering engine allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the query parameter to the search program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1519 represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw within the Vivisimo clustering engine's search functionality. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into web responses. The vulnerability specifically affects the query parameter handling within the search program, creating an attack vector where malicious actors can inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content directly into the application's output.
This cross-site scripting vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-79, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')". The flaw enables attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of the victim's browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users. The attack occurs when the search program processes the query parameter without adequate sanitization, allowing malicious payloads to be rendered as part of the web page content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the context of the ATT&CK framework's initial access and execution phases. Attackers can craft malicious search queries that, when processed by the vulnerable clustering engine, deliver payloads that persist in the search results or are executed when users click on affected links. This creates a persistent threat vector that can affect multiple users who interact with the search functionality, potentially compromising user sessions and enabling further exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate input validation requirements and the broader web application security posture. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization techniques, including proper HTML encoding of all user-supplied content before rendering it in web pages. The solution involves establishing robust output encoding mechanisms that prevent malicious scripts from executing in browser contexts. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation and sanitization within the search program's query handling logic would prevent the injection of harmful content. Security measures should also include regular security testing of web applications, implementation of content security policies, and comprehensive security training for developers to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future application development cycles.