CVE-2011-4541 in Hastymail2
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in index.php in Hastymail2 2.1.1 before RC2 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the rs parameter in a mailbox Drafts action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4541 represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw within the Hastymail2 webmail application version 2.1.1 prior to RC2 release. This security weakness resides in the index.php script and specifically affects the mailbox Drafts functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of affected user sessions. The vulnerability manifests when the rs parameter is manipulated during draft operations, allowing attackers to inject malicious content that persists and executes in the victim's browser environment.
From a technical perspective this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-79 which defines Cross-Site Scripting as a condition where an application fails to properly validate or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into dynamically generated web content. The flaw occurs because the application does not adequately sanitize the rs parameter input, permitting attackers to bypass normal security controls and inject malicious payloads. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it operates at the application layer where user interactions directly influence the generated content, making it a prime target for exploitation in modern web-based attack vectors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking. When exploited, attackers can manipulate user interfaces, redirect victims to malicious sites, steal session cookies, or even perform actions on behalf of authenticated users within the mail application. The Drafts functionality is particularly susceptible because it handles user-generated content that may be displayed in various contexts, providing multiple potential injection points. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which covers the use of malicious HTML content in phishing attacks, enabling threat actors to craft convincing social engineering campaigns that leverage the legitimate application interface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4541 require immediate patching of the Hastymail2 application to version RC2 or later, where input sanitization has been properly implemented. Organizations should also implement proper input validation at multiple layers including client-side and server-side filtering, employ Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and conduct regular security testing of web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding practices as recommended by OWASP and other security frameworks. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual parameter patterns in mailbox operations, and user education regarding suspicious email content and behavior should be maintained as part of a comprehensive security posture.