CVE-2007-0240 in Zope
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Zope 2.10.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via unspecified vectors in a HTTP GET request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0240 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within Zope content management framework versions 2.10.2 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the application's handling of HTTP GET requests where user-supplied input is not properly sanitized or validated before being rendered in web responses. The issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to adequately filter malicious script content, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of other users' browsers.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The flaw manifests when Zope processes GET parameters without implementing proper output encoding or sanitization measures, allowing attackers to inject malicious payloads through URL parameters. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which describes the use of web shell injection as part of initial access and persistence tactics. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application layer where user input directly influences web page generation, making it an ideal vector for session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0240 extends beyond simple script injection as it enables attackers to manipulate the behavior of authenticated users within the Zope environment. When exploited, this vulnerability can allow unauthorized individuals to execute malicious code in the context of legitimate users, potentially leading to complete compromise of user sessions and access to sensitive application data. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require local system access or privileged network positions, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Zope serves as a web application platform. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when clicked by victims, execute scripts that steal cookies, redirect users to phishing sites, or perform unauthorized actions within the application.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to Zope versions 2.10.3 or later where the XSS vulnerability has been patched through enhanced input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization at all entry points where user data is processed, ensuring that all GET parameters are properly validated against known safe character sets and patterns. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection by restricting script execution within the application context. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in web applications and ensure that proper security controls are in place to prevent future exploitation attempts.