CVE-2011-10038 in Nagios
Summary
by MITRE • 10/31/2025
Nagios XI versions prior to 2011R1.9 are vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS) via the recurring downtime script of the web interface. Insufficient validation or escaping of user-supplied input may allow an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary script in the context of a victim's browser.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2025
Nagios XI versions prior to 2011R1.9 contain a critical cross-site scripting vulnerability in the recurring downtime script functionality of the web interface. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output escaping mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it within the browser context. The flaw specifically affects the recurring downtime script component, which allows administrators to schedule automated maintenance periods for monitoring services. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input through the downtime script interface, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution in the victim's browser session.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into web pages without proper validation or escaping. The attack vector involves an authenticated user or attacker who can manipulate the recurring downtime script parameters to inject malicious JavaScript code. When the affected web interface processes this malicious input and renders it without adequate sanitization, the injected script executes within the context of the victim's browser session, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the monitoring environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, steal administrative credentials, or manipulate monitoring data. Given that Nagios XI serves as a critical infrastructure monitoring solution, an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to sensitive system information, potentially leading to further compromise of the monitored network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the web-based management interface, making it accessible through standard web browsers and potentially exploitable by remote attackers who can authenticate to the system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to Nagios XI 2011R1.9 or later versions where the XSS vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and output escaping mechanisms throughout the web application, following secure coding practices that align with the OWASP Top Ten security principles. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the Nagios XI interface to trusted users only, while regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the monitoring infrastructure. Additionally, implementing content security policies and regular security awareness training for administrators can help reduce the risk of exploitation and maintain the integrity of the monitoring environment.