CVE-2005-2735 in phpGraphy
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in phpGraphy 0.9.9a and earlier allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via EXIF data, such as the Camera Model Tag.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2735 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within phpGraphy version 0.9.9a and earlier releases. This security weakness specifically targets the application's handling of EXIF metadata extracted from digital photographs, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute malicious code within the context of users' browsers. The flaw manifests when the application processes camera model information embedded in EXIF data without proper sanitization or output encoding, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content that gets rendered in users' browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within phpGraphy's EXIF data processing pipeline. When the application reads EXIF metadata from uploaded images, particularly the Camera Model Tag field, it fails to adequately sanitize this data before displaying it in web pages. This primitive form of XSS vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which categorizes improper neutralization of input during web page generation, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages legitimate application functionality to deliver malicious payloads. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites, as attackers only need to upload an image containing malicious EXIF data, making it an attractive target for automated attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, creating potential for severe consequences including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. When users view galleries containing compromised images, their browsers execute the injected scripts, potentially allowing attackers to steal cookies, modify page content, or redirect users to phishing sites. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1566 which covers phishing and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage. The risk is amplified in environments where phpGraphy is used for public image galleries or user-uploaded content systems, as the attack surface becomes significantly larger.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-2735 require immediate implementation of proper input sanitization and output encoding measures. Organizations should upgrade to phpGraphy version 0.9.9b or later, which includes fixes for this vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should implement strict validation of uploaded image metadata, sanitize all EXIF data before display, and employ Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution. The remediation process should include thorough code review of all data handling routines that process external inputs, particularly focusing on the EXIF parsing functions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in web applications. The fix should also include implementing proper output encoding for all dynamic content, particularly when displaying metadata from external sources, aligning with security best practices outlined in OWASP's top ten vulnerabilities and secure coding guidelines.