CVE-2011-0439 in Mahara
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Mahara 1.2.x before 1.2.7 and 1.3.x before 1.3.4 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the Pieforms select box.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2021
The CVE-2011-0439 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw discovered in the Mahara learning management system version 1.2.x prior to 1.2.7 and 1.3.x prior to 1.3.4. This vulnerability specifically affects the Pieforms component which is utilized for creating dynamic web forms within the Mahara platform. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within the form handling system, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content into the application's user interface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the Pieforms select box functionality, which is commonly used for creating dropdown menus and selection interfaces within Mahara's web forms. Attackers can manipulate the select box parameters by injecting malicious scripts or HTML code directly into the form elements, bypassing the platform's built-in security controls. This occurs because the application fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied input before rendering it back to the browser, allowing malicious payloads to execute in the context of other users' sessions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration. When victims interact with compromised forms, their browsers execute the injected scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive educational data, manipulation of user accounts, or redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability particularly affects educational institutions using Mahara for collaborative learning environments where users frequently interact with form-based interfaces.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The attack vector follows patterns consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1566 technique for initial access through malicious web content. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected Mahara installations to address this vulnerability, as the impact extends to all users who interact with forms containing the vulnerable Pieforms select box functionality. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, output encoding, and regular security assessments of web applications can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
The remediation approach requires updating to Mahara versions 1.2.7 or 1.3.4 respectively, which contain the necessary code modifications to properly sanitize user input and prevent script injection attacks. Network administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content security policies as additional defensive measures to mitigate potential exploitation attempts. Regular security monitoring and vulnerability assessment procedures should be established to identify and address similar weaknesses in other web applications within the organization's infrastructure.