CVE-2010-3427 in Open Classifieds
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in Open Classifieds 1.7.0.2 allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) desc, (2) price, (3) title, and (4) place parameters to index.php and the (5) subject parameter to contact.htm, related to content/contact.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3427 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw affecting Open Classifieds version 1.7.0.2, demonstrating a fundamental weakness in input validation and output encoding mechanisms. This vulnerability classifies under CWE-79 as improper neutralization of input during web output, where user-supplied data is not adequately sanitized before being rendered in web pages. The flaw specifically impacts multiple parameters across different endpoints within the application's user interface and contact functionality.
Multiple attack vectors exist within this vulnerability, with remote attackers able to inject malicious scripts through five distinct parameters that handle user-generated content. The desc parameter in index.php allows injection into description fields, while the price parameter enables script injection in pricing information. The title parameter in index.php and place parameter in index.php both create opportunities for malicious code execution in listing titles and locations. Additionally, the subject parameter in contact.htm provides another entry point through the content/contact.php script. These parameters all handle user input that flows directly into web page output without proper sanitization or encoding.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts in the context of victim browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. Attackers could craft malicious listings with embedded scripts that would execute when other users view the classified content, or use the contact form injection to compromise users who interact with the contact functionality. The vulnerability affects the entire user base since any user input that flows through these parameters could be exploited, making it particularly dangerous for community-driven classified platforms where users regularly submit content.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding across all user-supplied parameters. The recommended approach involves sanitizing all input data using established encoding methods such as HTML entity encoding for output contexts, implementing proper parameter validation, and employing Content Security Policy headers to prevent script execution. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, while conducting regular security audits of input handling mechanisms. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious links and T1059.001 for command and control through script injection, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. The remediation process should include thorough code review of all user input handling functions, implementation of automated testing for XSS vulnerabilities, and regular security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future releases.