CVE-2005-3477 in Invision Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple interpretation error in the image upload handling code in Invision Gallery 2.0.3 allows remote attackers to conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks via HTML or script in an image whose type does not match its extension, which is rendered by Internet Explorer due to CVE-2005-3312. NOTE: it could be argued that this vulnerability is due to a design flaw in Internet Explorer and the proper fix should be in that browser; if so, then this should not be treated as a vulnerability in Invision Gallery.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3477 represents a complex cross-site scripting issue within the Invision Gallery 2.0.3 image upload handling functionality. This flaw stems from inadequate input validation and file type interpretation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-uploaded content. The vulnerability specifically manifests when attackers upload images with mismatched file types where the actual file content contains HTML or script code despite having a different file extension. This creates a dangerous scenario where the gallery application processes these files without proper security checks, allowing malicious code to be embedded within what appears to be a legitimate image upload.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the specific behavior of Internet Explorer browsers, particularly those affected by CVE-2005-3312 which addresses a rendering engine flaw that permits the execution of embedded scripts even within image files. This creates a dangerous intersection where the gallery application's weak input validation combined with the browser's permissive rendering behavior enables attackers to bypass security measures. The vulnerability operates under CWE-20, which describes input validation errors, specifically focusing on improper handling of file type mismatches and the lack of proper content sanitization during upload processing. The flaw essentially allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers when they view the compromised images.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple XSS attacks, as it can enable attackers to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect victims to malicious websites. The vulnerability affects any user who views images uploaded through the gallery, making it particularly dangerous in community-driven platforms where users trust the content they see. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading a specially crafted image file that appears to be a valid image but contains embedded malicious code. When other users access the gallery and view these images, their browsers execute the embedded scripts, potentially compromising their sessions or exposing them to further attacks.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require multiple layers of defense starting with proper file validation and content inspection. The most effective approach involves implementing strict file type verification that examines actual file content rather than relying solely on file extensions. This includes using MIME type checking, file signature validation, and content analysis to ensure uploaded files match their claimed types. Organizations should also implement proper output encoding and sanitization when displaying user-uploaded content, particularly in web applications that render images. The vulnerability's classification as potentially browser-dependent highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for all components in the attack chain, including the web browser itself. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and using secure coding practices for file upload handlers can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for script injection and T1566 for spearphishing with a malicious attachment, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls at multiple attack surface points.