CVE-2007-2384 in Script.aculo.us
Summary
by MITRE
The Script.aculo.us framework exchanges data using JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) without an associated protection scheme, which allows remote attackers to obtain the data via a web page that retrieves the data through a URL in the SRC attribute of a SCRIPT element and captures the data using other JavaScript code, aka "JavaScript Hijacking."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2384 represents a critical security flaw in the Script.aculo.us JavaScript framework that was widely used for creating dynamic web applications. This vulnerability specifically targets the framework's handling of JSON data exchange mechanisms, creating a significant risk for applications that rely on this technology. The issue stems from the framework's failure to implement proper data protection measures when transmitting sensitive information through JSON format, leaving applications exposed to unauthorized data access through client-side exploitation techniques.
The technical flaw manifests when Script.aculo.us applications transmit data using JSON format without implementing any form of data protection or authentication mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious web pages that utilize the SRC attribute of SCRIPT elements to retrieve JSON data from vulnerable applications. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass traditional server-side security controls by operating entirely within the client-side environment where the data is already accessible to the browser. This type of attack falls under the category of client-side data exposure and represents a fundamental failure in secure data transmission practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables sophisticated attacks that can compromise entire web applications and user sessions. When attackers successfully exploit this vulnerability, they can capture sensitive information such as user credentials, session tokens, personal data, and other confidential information that applications transmit through JSON endpoints. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it requires no special privileges or complex exploitation techniques, making it accessible to attackers with basic web development knowledge. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of web applications that depend on Script.aculo.us for their JavaScript functionality.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including the adoption of proper JSON data protection mechanisms such as JSONP with validation, CORS headers, and authentication tokens. The recommended approach involves implementing strict access controls and ensuring that sensitive data is not transmitted through unsecured JSON endpoints. Additionally, developers should consider implementing Content Security Policy headers to prevent unauthorized script execution and utilize modern JavaScript frameworks that provide built-in security measures for data transmission. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-346, which addresses "Improper Verification of Source of a Communication Channel," and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in data handling. The attack pattern corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which involves application layer protocol manipulation through JavaScript hijacking and data exfiltration. Organizations must also consider upgrading to modern frameworks that have addressed these security concerns and implement comprehensive security testing procedures to identify similar vulnerabilities in their web applications.