CVE-2005-4032 in search
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in search.cgi in Easy Search System 1.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the q parameter.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4032 represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw within the Easy Search System version 1.1 and earlier implementations. This security weakness resides in the search.cgi script which processes user input through the q parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into dynamic web content.
This XSS vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-79, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')". The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious payloads that can persist in the search system and execute whenever other users view the search results or interact with the affected functionality. The q parameter serves as the primary injection vector, allowing threat actors to craft specially crafted search queries that contain malicious script code, which then gets executed in the browsers of unsuspecting users who access the vulnerable search results.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious websites. Attackers can exploit this weakness to steal user sessions, capture sensitive information submitted through forms, or manipulate the user interface to display fraudulent content. The persistent nature of the vulnerability means that once an attacker successfully injects malicious code, it can affect all users who encounter the compromised search results, potentially leading to widespread compromise of user data and system integrity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-4032 should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding techniques that align with established security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. The most effective remediation involves sanitizing all user input through comprehensive validation routines that remove or encode potentially dangerous characters before processing or displaying search queries. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and using proper HTML encoding functions can provide additional layers of protection. Organizations should also consider upgrading to newer versions of the Easy Search System where these vulnerabilities have been addressed, as the affected versions represent outdated software with known security weaknesses that are no longer supported with security updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input sanitization and proper web application security practices as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's web application attack patterns, particularly focusing on the execution and persistence phases of cyber attacks.