CVE-2010-1647 in MediaWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in MediaWiki 1.15 before 1.15.4 and 1.16 before 1.16 beta 3 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via crafted Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) strings that are processed as script by Internet Explorer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1647 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw affecting MediaWiki versions prior to 1.15.4 and 1.16 beta 3. This security weakness specifically targets the processing of Cascading Style Sheets within the MediaWiki platform, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code in the context of affected systems. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of CSS content, particularly when processed by Internet Explorer browsers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the injection of crafted CSS strings that contain malicious script content. When Internet Explorer processes these specially crafted CSS elements, it interprets certain CSS properties as executable script code, effectively bypassing traditional security measures designed to prevent cross-site scripting attacks. This particular flaw leverages the browser-specific behavior of Internet Explorer where certain CSS properties can trigger script execution, making the attack vector particularly dangerous in environments where IE is the primary browser. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which describes improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically focusing on cross-site scripting scenarios where user-controllable data is not properly sanitized.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of authenticated users' browsers. This could result in complete compromise of user sessions, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within networks where MediaWiki is deployed. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on MediaWiki for collaborative content management or documentation platforms. The vulnerability affects not just individual users but entire wiki communities, as malicious content can be injected into shared editing environments where multiple users contribute content.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected MediaWiki installations to mitigate this vulnerability, as the attack surface includes any wiki environment that allows user-contributed content and uses Internet Explorer for viewing. The remediation strategy should include implementing proper input validation for CSS content, employing content security policies, and ensuring all users are updated to patched versions of MediaWiki. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious CSS injection patterns. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input sanitization in web applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering tactics involving malicious content delivery. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and maintain up-to-date patch management procedures to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in their systems.