CVE-2009-2376 in TangoCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Html::textarea function in application/libraries/Html.php in TangoCMS 2.x before 2.3.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the value parameter, related to the Contact module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2376 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within TangoCMS 2.x content management system versions prior to 2.3.0. This weakness specifically affects the Html::textarea function located in the application/libraries/Html.php file, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of affected user sessions. The vulnerability manifests through the value parameter of the textarea function, which is utilized within the Contact module of the CMS, making it particularly dangerous as it targets a commonly used form element that handles user input.
The technical implementation of this XSS vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and output encoding within the Html::textarea function. When the Contact module processes user-submitted data through the textarea element, the application fails to properly escape or validate special characters that could be interpreted as HTML or JavaScript code. This allows attackers to inject malicious payloads that are subsequently rendered in the browser of unsuspecting users who view the affected content. The flaw operates at the application layer, specifically targeting the HTML generation logic that constructs form elements, and represents a classic case of insufficient data validation and sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform session hijacking, deface websites, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious domains. Users interacting with the Contact module could inadvertently execute malicious scripts that compromise their browser sessions, potentially leading to unauthorized access to CMS administrative functions or the theft of personal information submitted through contact forms. The vulnerability affects the entire user base of affected TangoCMS installations, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of this CMS platform.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting weaknesses in web applications. The flaw also maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for malicious file execution, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy malicious payloads that can persist in the web application environment. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to TangoCMS 2.3.0 or later versions, implementing proper input validation and output encoding measures, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of all form handling functions within their web applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components.