CVE-2010-3672 in TYPO3
Summary
by MITRE
TYPO3 before 4.3.4 and 4.4.x before 4.4.1 allows XSS in the textarea view helper in an extbase extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3672 represents a cross-site scripting flaw within the TYPO3 content management system that specifically affects versions prior to 4.3.4 and 4.4.x before 4.4.1. This issue resides within the textarea view helper component of extbase extensions, which are fundamental building blocks for creating dynamic web applications within the TYPO3 ecosystem. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code through improperly sanitized user input, potentially compromising the security of web applications built on this platform.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the textarea view helper functionality. When TYPO3 processes form data or user-generated content through extbase extensions, the textarea helper fails to properly escape or encode special characters that could be interpreted as executable JavaScript code. This weakness creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious payloads that, when rendered in the browser, execute unintended scripts within the context of authenticated users' sessions.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3672 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, data theft, and privilege escalation within the TYPO3 environment. An attacker could potentially inject scripts that capture user credentials, redirect users to malicious websites, or manipulate the application's functionality. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core components used extensively in TYPO3 applications, making it a widespread concern across numerous installations.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a classic example of CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws where untrusted data is improperly incorporated into web pages. The attack surface is broad since extbase extensions are commonly used throughout TYPO3 installations, and the vulnerability can be exploited through various vectors including form submissions, user profile modifications, or content management interfaces. Additionally, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of scripts through web applications, potentially enabling further exploitation within the compromised environment.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to TYPO3 versions 4.3.4 or 4.4.1 and later, which contain the necessary patches to address the input sanitization issues. Additional protective measures include implementing strict content security policies, regular security audits of extbase extensions, and comprehensive input validation procedures. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious script injections while maintaining continuous monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process must include thorough testing of patched extensions to ensure that the security fixes do not introduce regressions in application functionality.