CVE-2005-3413 in eyeOS
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in desktop.php in eyeOS 0.8.4 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the motd parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2019
The CVE-2005-3413 vulnerability represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw in the eyeOS 0.8.4 web-based operating system, specifically within the desktop.php component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the motd parameter, which serves as a message of the day display mechanism within the eyeOS interface. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and output sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects the core desktop functionality of the operating system, potentially compromising the security of all users interacting with the affected system.
This XSS vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-79, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of input during web output. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious code through the motd parameter, which is then rendered without proper sanitization in the web interface. When legitimate users view the desktop environment, their browsers execute the injected scripts, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability is categorized as a reflected XSS attack since the malicious payload is reflected back to users through the application's response, making it particularly effective for phishing and social engineering attacks within the eyeOS environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it undermines the fundamental security model of the eyeOS platform. Attackers can exploit this flaw to gain unauthorized access to user sessions, potentially escalating privileges and accessing sensitive data stored within the eyeOS environment. The vulnerability affects all users of eyeOS 0.8.4 who interact with the desktop interface, creating a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable version is deployed. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1566.001, which involves social engineering through spearphishing with a link, as the malicious code injection can be disguised as legitimate system messages or notifications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3413 require immediate implementation of input validation and output encoding measures within the desktop.php component. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user input through proper HTML escaping before rendering any content from the motd parameter. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection against script execution. Organizations should also consider upgrading to patched versions of eyeOS, as the vulnerability represents a known issue that was addressed in subsequent releases. The remediation process should include thorough code review of input handling mechanisms and implementation of automated testing procedures to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future development cycles. Security awareness training for administrators is also recommended to ensure proper configuration and monitoring of the eyeOS environment to detect potential exploitation attempts.