CVE-2005-2338 in XOOPS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in XOOPS 2.0.12 JP and earlier, XOOPS 2.0.13.1 and earlier, and 2.2.x up to 2.2.3 RC1 allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via (1) modules that use "XOOPS Code" and (2) newbb in the forum module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2018
The CVE-2005-2338 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting vulnerability affecting multiple versions of the XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability specifically impacts XOOPS versions 2.0.12 JP and earlier, 2.0.13.1 and earlier, and 2.2.x versions up to 2.2.3 RC1. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute malicious web scripts or HTML code within the context of affected user sessions, creating significant security risks for websites utilizing these vulnerable versions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the CMS's core functionality.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary attack vectors within the XOOPS framework. The first vector involves modules that utilize "XOOPS Code" functionality, which serves as a code execution mechanism for various CMS components. The second vector targets the newbb forum module, which handles bulletin board functionality. Both attack paths fail to properly sanitize user input before rendering it in web pages, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of unsuspecting users. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in software applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-2338 extends beyond simple script injection, potentially enabling attackers to perform session hijacking, deface websites, steal user credentials, or redirect victims to malicious sites. When exploited, these vulnerabilities can compromise the integrity of entire websites and the personal data of users interacting with vulnerable XOOPS installations. The widespread adoption of XOOPS in web publishing and community platforms makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous, as it affects numerous websites that may not have adequate security monitoring in place. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple version lines indicates a fundamental flaw in the input handling mechanisms that was not adequately addressed in the affected releases.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-2338 require immediate action including upgrading to patched versions of XOOPS, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious script injections. Organizations should also consider implementing content security policies and output encoding mechanisms to prevent script execution in user-generated content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security guidelines and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 for Initial Access through malicious web content. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other web applications and ensure comprehensive protection against similar cross-site scripting attacks.