CVE-2009-4110 in DotNetNuke
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the search functionality in DotNetNuke 4.8 through 5.1.4 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via search terms that are not properly filtered before display in a custom results page.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4110 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the search functionality of DotNetNuke content management systems version 4.8 through 5.1.4. This vulnerability resides in the way the platform handles user input during search operations, specifically when processing search terms that are subsequently displayed on custom results pages. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it within web pages. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious search queries containing embedded script code or HTML tags that execute in the context of other users' browsers when they view the search results. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a fundamental web application security weakness that enables attackers to inject client-side scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The attack vector operates through the web application's search interface where user input is directly reflected in the output without proper sanitization, creating an environment where malicious payloads can be executed in the victim's browser context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, data exfiltration, and defacement of web content. When users browse search results containing malicious payloads, their browsers execute the injected scripts with the privileges of the logged-in user, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive information, modify content, or perform actions on behalf of victims. The vulnerability affects the core search functionality which is typically accessed by all users, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone who performs searches on the affected system. The attack requires minimal technical expertise as it leverages the existing search functionality rather than requiring complex exploitation techniques, and the impact can be amplified through social engineering campaigns where attackers craft search terms designed to trigger specific malicious behaviors in the victim's browser. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where DotNetNuke systems may host sensitive corporate data and user information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-4110 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening of the affected DotNetNuke installations. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before it is processed or displayed in search results. Organizations should apply the official security patches released by DotNetNuke for versions 4.8 through 5.1.4, which include enhanced filtering mechanisms and improved HTML encoding for search term handling. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection against script execution in search results. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious search patterns, and establish regular security testing procedures including automated scanning and manual penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for credential access through spearphishing and T1566.002 for spearphishing via links, as attackers can leverage the XSS to steal session cookies or redirect users to malicious sites. Regular security awareness training for administrators and developers is essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities in custom modules and extensions that may not have been updated to address this specific flaw. The remediation process should also include thorough testing to ensure that security patches do not introduce regressions in legitimate functionality while maintaining the system's core search capabilities.