CVE-2007-4064 in Drupal
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in Drupal 5.x before 5.2, and 4.7.x before 4.7.7, (1) allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via "some server variables," including PHP_SELF; and (2) allow remote authenticated administrators to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via custom content type names.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/25/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4064 represents a critical cross-site scripting issue affecting Drupal content management systems across multiple versions. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within the Drupal core codebase, specifically targeting the handling of server variables and custom content type names. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary web script or HTML code into web pages viewed by other users, creating a significant security risk for websites relying on Drupal for content management.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through two distinct attack vectors that exploit different aspects of Drupal's input processing. The first vector targets server variables including PHP_SELF, which are commonly used in web applications for tracking the current script name and path. When Drupal fails to properly sanitize these variables before rendering them in web responses, attackers can inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers. The second vector targets authenticated administrators who possess the ability to create custom content types, where the vulnerability allows these privileged users to inject malicious code into content type names that are subsequently displayed in administrative interfaces. This dual nature of the vulnerability means that both unauthenticated attackers and authenticated malicious administrators can exploit it, significantly expanding the attack surface.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4064 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can lead to complete session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration. When attackers exploit these XSS vulnerabilities, they can steal cookies, session tokens, and other sensitive information from authenticated users. The vulnerability particularly affects websites where Drupal is used for user-generated content or collaborative environments, as the injected scripts can persist and affect multiple users over time. The attack can be executed through various means including malicious links shared via email or social media, or through compromised user accounts that can be leveraged to inject malicious code into content type names. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where content management systems handle sensitive information or serve as platforms for user interaction.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in software applications, and maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1566 for credential access through social engineering and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the official Drupal security patches released for versions 5.2 and 4.7.7, which address the input validation issues in server variable handling and custom content type name processing. Additional defensive measures include implementing content security policies, using proper input sanitization libraries, and conducting regular security audits of web applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation at multiple layers within web applications, emphasizing the need for consistent security practices throughout the software development lifecycle rather than relying solely on perimeter defenses.