CVE-2005-1638 in SafeHTML
Summary
by MITRE
The _writeAttrs function in SafeHTML before 1.3.2 does not properly handle quotes in attribute values, which could allow remote attackers to exploit cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in applications that rely on SafeHTML for protection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1638 resides within the SafeHTML library version 1.3.1 and earlier, specifically within the _writeAttrs function that is responsible for processing HTML attributes during output generation. This flaw represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that arises from inadequate sanitization of attribute values containing quotation marks. The issue occurs when applications utilizing SafeHTML for HTML sanitization fail to properly escape or validate quote characters within attribute values, creating potential injection vectors for malicious script execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of quote characters in HTML attribute values during the _writeAttrs function processing. When attribute values contain unescaped quotes, the function fails to properly sanitize these inputs, allowing attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that can execute within the context of a victim's browser. This represents a direct violation of input validation principles and demonstrates a failure in proper HTML escaping mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically impacts applications that rely on SafeHTML for protection against XSS attacks, creating a false sense of security when the library itself contains a critical flaw in its attribute handling logic.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of any web application using vulnerable versions of SafeHTML. This enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, data theft, defacement of web pages, and redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the HTML generation layer, meaning that even applications that properly validate user input at higher levels can still be compromised if they depend on SafeHTML for output sanitization. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, making it a preferred target for automated exploitation tools.
Security practitioners should immediately upgrade to SafeHTML version 1.3.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proper quote handling in attribute values. Organizations should conduct comprehensive audits of all applications utilizing SafeHTML to identify potential exposure points and implement additional input validation layers where possible. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries exploit web application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. Additionally, this issue reflects poor secure coding practices related to HTML escaping and input sanitization that should be addressed through comprehensive security training and code review processes to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack.