CVE-2008-5682 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Opera before 9.63 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via built-in XSLT templates.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5682 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in Opera web browsers prior to version 9.63. This vulnerability specifically targets the browser's handling of XSLT templates, which are used for transforming xml data into formatted documents. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of the victim's browser session, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information or complete browser compromise. The vulnerability operates through the browser's built-in XSLT processing capabilities, where improperly sanitized user input can be interpreted as executable code rather than safe data.
This XSS vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically manifesting as a reflected XSS attack vector through the XSLT template processing mechanism. The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables attackers to inject malicious scripts that can steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect victims to malicious websites. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the browser's legitimate XSLT processing features, making the malicious code appear to originate from trusted sources within the browser environment. The vulnerability demonstrates how even well-integrated browser features can become attack surfaces when proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms are absent or insufficient.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft malicious XSLT templates or inject malicious content into XSLT processing contexts within web pages. When the vulnerable Opera browser processes these templates, it executes the injected scripts within the user's browsing context, bypassing standard security restrictions. This particular flaw represents a sophisticated attack surface that combines XML processing with web scripting capabilities, creating a unique exploitation pathway. The vulnerability affects not just individual users but also organizations that rely on Opera browsers for business operations, as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious websites, compromised web applications, or social engineering campaigns.
Organizations and users should immediately update to Opera version 9.63 or later, which includes patches addressing this XSS vulnerability. Security administrators should implement comprehensive web application firewalls and input validation measures to mitigate potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper sanitization of all user-provided content, especially within XML processing contexts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser software updated. The incident underscores the critical nature of maintaining current security patches and the potential consequences of running outdated browser software in enterprise environments. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges inherent in modern web browsers that must balance functionality with security protection.