CVE-2005-3757 in Mini Search Appliance
Summary
by MITRE
The Saxon XSLT parser in Google Mini Search Appliance, and possibly Google Search Appliance, allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information and execute arbitrary code via dangerous Java class methods in select attribute of xsl:value-of tags in XSLT style sheets, such as (1) system-property, (2) sys:getProperty, and (3) run:exec.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3757 represents a critical security flaw in the Saxon XSLT parser implementation within Google Mini Search Appliance and potentially the broader Google Search Appliance ecosystem. This vulnerability stems from the parser's insufficient sanitization of XSLT stylesheet attributes, specifically targeting the select attribute within xsl:value-of tags. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject dangerous Java class methods that can be executed within the parser's runtime environment, creating a severe attack surface that spans both information disclosure and arbitrary code execution capabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the parser's handling of the system-property function, which allows access to system-level information through the sys:getProperty method, and the run:exec function that can execute arbitrary system commands. These methods are typically restricted within secure parsing environments but are improperly handled in the vulnerable Google appliances, allowing attackers to bypass normal security boundaries. The select attribute in xsl:value-of tags serves as the primary attack vector, where malicious input can trigger the execution of these dangerous Java methods without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected systems. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized information disclosure, where sensitive system properties and configurations can be extracted through system-property functions. More critically, the ability to execute arbitrary code through run:exec functions allows attackers to perform full system compromise, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and lateral movement within network environments. This vulnerability affects organizations relying on Google Search Appliance for enterprise search functionality, making it particularly dangerous in corporate environments where sensitive data is indexed and searched.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation," and represents a classic example of unsafe deserialization and code injection in XML processing environments. The attack pattern follows the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching the affected appliances, implementing strict XSLT stylesheet validation, and deploying network segmentation controls to limit access to these systems. Additionally, monitoring for unusual XSLT processing patterns and implementing proper input sanitization measures can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper XML processing security measures in enterprise search appliances, where the parsing of user-supplied XSLT stylesheets can lead to complete system compromise. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their search infrastructure and ensure that all components are updated to versions that properly address this vulnerability, as the potential for exploitation remains high given the remote attack vector and the comprehensive nature of the privilege escalation capabilities.