CVE-2011-0428 in Ikiwiki
Summary
by MITRE
Cross Site Scripting (XSS) in ikiwiki before 3.20110122 could allow remote attackers to insert arbitrary JavaScript due to insufficient checking in comments.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/30/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0428 represents a classic cross site scripting flaw in the ikiwiki content management system prior to version 3.20110122. This vulnerability resides in the comment handling functionality of the web application, where inadequate input validation and sanitization permits malicious actors to inject arbitrary javascript code into the system. The flaw specifically affects the processing of user comments, which are commonly used in wiki environments to facilitate collaborative content creation and discussion. When users submit comments containing malicious script payloads, the insufficient validation mechanisms fail to properly escape or filter these inputs before rendering them in the web interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper output encoding and input sanitization within the comment processing pipeline. In web applications, this type of flaw typically occurs when developers assume that user input will be benign or fail to implement comprehensive security measures during data processing. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute javascript code within the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or other malicious activities. This particular weakness is classified under CWE-79 as Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses the failure to properly sanitize user-supplied data before including it in web pages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a persistent threat vector that can affect all users interacting with the wiki system. Attackers can craft malicious comments that, when viewed by other users, automatically execute javascript code in their browsers. This creates a chain reaction where compromised users become unwitting vectors for spreading the malicious payloads to other system users. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in collaborative environments like wikis where users frequently interact with content generated by others. The attack surface is broad since any user with comment privileges can potentially exploit this flaw, making it difficult to contain and monitor effectively.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0428 should prioritize immediate patching of the ikiwiki system to version 3.20110122 or later, which contains the necessary input sanitization fixes. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout their web applications, particularly for user-generated content. The implementation of content security policies can provide additional protection layers against script execution, while regular security audits of web applications should include thorough testing of input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious content, highlighting the importance of robust input sanitization as a fundamental security control. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for potential exploitation attempts, while user education about the risks of clicking on untrusted links or content remains a crucial defensive measure.