CVE-2009-3440 in OSSIM
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Open Source Security Information Management (OSSIM) before 2.1.2 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the option parameter to the default URI (aka the main menu).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3440 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Open Source Security Information Management (OSSIM) platform, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.1.2. This issue resides in the application's handling of user input through the option parameter within the default URI context, which serves as the main menu interface for the security information management system. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of authenticated users' browsers, potentially compromising the integrity of the security monitoring environment.
This vulnerability operates through a classic input validation failure where the application fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into dynamic web content. The option parameter in the default URI serves as an entry point where attacker-controlled input can be directly rendered without adequate security controls, creating an environment where malicious JavaScript code can be executed in the victim's browser context. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a failure to sanitize input, specifically manifesting as a reflected cross-site scripting flaw that allows arbitrary code execution in the user's browser.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as it can enable attackers to manipulate the security monitoring environment itself. An attacker could potentially inject malicious scripts that modify the display of security alerts, redirect users to phishing sites, or even execute commands that compromise the underlying security infrastructure. This creates a particularly dangerous scenario for security operations centers that rely on OSSIM for critical threat monitoring, as the vulnerability could be exploited to hide malicious activities or manipulate security alerts. The attack vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it a significant concern for organizations deploying this platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-3440 should focus on immediate patching to version 2.1.2 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures including proper escaping of HTML characters and validation of all user-supplied parameters. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit potential attack surface, while security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers could leverage this XSS vulnerability to execute malicious scripts within the victim's browser context. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and regular security assessments can provide additional defense layers against similar vulnerabilities in the future, ensuring that the security information management system maintains its integrity and reliability.