CVE-2009-0247 in Web IM 2009
Summary
by MITRE
The server for 53KF Web IM 2009 Home, Professional, and Enterprise editions relies on client-side protection mechanisms against cross-site scripting (XSS), which allows remote attackers to conduct XSS attacks by using a modified client to send a crafted IM message, related to the msg variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0247 affects the 53KF Web IM 2009 series across its Home, Professional, and Enterprise editions, representing a critical security flaw in the application's input validation and sanitization mechanisms. This issue stems from the software's improper reliance on client-side security measures to prevent cross-site scripting attacks, creating a fundamental architectural weakness that exposes the system to remote exploitation. The vulnerability specifically targets the msg variable within the instant messaging functionality, where malicious actors can craft specially designed IM messages to bypass intended security controls.
The technical flaw manifests through the application's insufficient server-side validation of user input, particularly within the message handling component. When users send instant messages through the 53KF Web IM interface, the system should perform comprehensive sanitization and validation of all input parameters before processing or storing them. However, the implementation relies heavily on client-side JavaScript protections that can be easily circumvented by attackers who modify the client-side code or directly submit malicious payloads through alternative interfaces. This architectural oversight places the responsibility for XSS prevention on the client side rather than implementing robust server-side defenses, which is a well-documented security anti-pattern that violates secure coding principles.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as remote attackers can leverage the XSS vector to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of authenticated user sessions. This capability enables attackers to perform actions such as stealing session cookies, modifying user permissions, accessing sensitive communications, or even redirecting users to malicious websites. The vulnerability affects all editions of the 53KF Web IM 2009 platform, suggesting that the flaw exists at the core application architecture level rather than being limited to specific feature sets or user roles. Given that the application serves as an instant messaging platform, the potential for abuse is particularly concerning as it could allow attackers to intercept or manipulate real-time communications between users.
Security researchers categorize this vulnerability under CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses the failure to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into web pages. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001: Phishing, as attackers can craft malicious IM messages that, when viewed by victims, execute malicious code in their browsers. The vulnerability also relates to T1059.007: Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, as the exploitation relies on JavaScript execution within the victim's browser context. Organizations using 53KF Web IM 2009 should implement immediate mitigations including comprehensive input sanitization, output encoding, and the implementation of Content Security Policy headers. Additionally, administrators should consider disabling or restricting the use of client-side scripting features that could be exploited, and deploy web application firewalls to monitor for suspicious IM message patterns. The remediation efforts must focus on eliminating the reliance on client-side protection mechanisms and implementing robust server-side validation to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future software releases.