CVE-2009-2772 in Pg Roomate Finder Solution
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in PG Roommate Finder Solution allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the part parameter to (1) quick_search.php and (2) viewprofile.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2025
The CVE-2009-2772 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the PG Roommate Finder Solution web application, exposing users to significant security risks through malicious script injection attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects two key application endpoints: quick_search.php and viewprofile.php, where the part parameter serves as the primary attack vector for executing malicious code. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's processing logic, allowing attackers to manipulate the part parameter with crafted payloads that bypass security controls designed to prevent unauthorized script execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic XSS attack pattern where user-supplied input flows directly into the application's response without proper sanitization or encoding. When the part parameter is processed by either quick_search.php or viewprofile.php, the application fails to validate or escape special characters that could be interpreted as HTML or JavaScript commands. This processing gap creates an exploitable condition where malicious actors can inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML code that executes within the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through various means including crafted URLs, form submissions, or even social engineering techniques that trick users into clicking malicious links.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-2772 extends beyond simple script injection, potentially enabling attackers to perform session hijacking, credential theft, data exfiltration, and unauthorized actions within the application's context. Users who visit compromised pages may have their browser sessions compromised, leading to unauthorized access to personal information, profile modifications, or even complete account takeovers. The vulnerability affects the application's integrity and availability, as malicious scripts could redirect users to phishing sites, display malicious advertisements, or manipulate application functionality. Given that this vulnerability affects core search and profile viewing functionality, it represents a high-risk exposure that could compromise the entire user base and the application's reputation, potentially leading to regulatory compliance violations and legal consequences.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms across all user-supplied parameters. The application must employ proper parameter sanitization techniques that reject or escape potentially dangerous characters before processing user input. Implementing Content Security Policy headers, using proper HTML encoding for dynamic content, and employing input validation libraries can significantly reduce the risk of XSS exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing Web Application Firewall rules to detect and block malicious payloads targeting these specific endpoints. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and follows ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering tactics including the use of malicious web content to compromise user systems. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on input handling and output encoding practices are essential for preventing similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles and maintaining application security posture.