CVE-2011-0771 in RPX
Summary
by MITRE
The Janrain Engage (formerly RPX) module 6.x-1.3 for Drupal does not validate the file for a profile image, which allows remote authenticated users to conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks and possibly execute arbitrary PHP code by causing a crafted avatar to be downloaded from an external login provider site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0771 affects the Janrain Engage module version 6.x-1.3 for Drupal platforms, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of user authentication and profile management systems. This module serves as a bridge between Drupal websites and external identity providers, enabling single sign-on functionality through various social media platforms and third-party authentication services. The flaw exists within the module's handling of profile images, specifically the avatar images that users upload or are assigned through external login providers. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of file content, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the system's behavior through crafted profile images.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows authenticated users to exploit a cross-site scripting attack vector by manipulating the file validation process for profile images. When users authenticate through external providers, the module retrieves avatar images from these third-party sites and stores them locally for display purposes. The lack of proper file validation means that malicious actors can upload or manipulate avatar files to contain malicious scripts or code that will execute when the image is rendered in web browsers. This vulnerability operates under CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and can potentially escalate to arbitrary code execution through the exploitation of PHP code injection mechanisms within the module's image processing pipeline. The attack requires authentication to the Drupal system, but once successful, it can be leveraged to execute malicious code on the server hosting the vulnerable module.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0771 extends beyond simple XSS attacks, as it represents a significant threat to the overall security posture of Drupal installations using the affected module. Remote authenticated attackers can leverage this vulnerability to compromise user sessions, steal sensitive information, or gain unauthorized access to system resources. The attack vector specifically targets the profile image handling functionality, making it particularly dangerous for websites that rely heavily on user-generated content and social authentication features. This vulnerability affects not just the immediate security of individual user accounts but also creates potential pathways for privilege escalation and persistent threats within the Drupal environment. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to data breaches, session hijacking, and unauthorized modifications to website content, making it a critical concern for organizations relying on Drupal for their web presence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0771 require immediate action from system administrators and security teams to address the vulnerable module and implement comprehensive security controls. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of the Janrain Engage module or removing the module entirely from vulnerable Drupal installations until proper updates are implemented. Organizations should also implement additional security measures including input validation for all file uploads, content security policies to prevent script execution, and regular security audits of third-party modules. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as the exploitation may involve execution of malicious code through the compromised image handling process. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious file upload attempts, and establish monitoring protocols to identify potential exploitation attempts through anomalous user behavior patterns. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their entire Drupal ecosystem to identify other potentially vulnerable modules or configurations that may present similar security risks.