CVE-2012-0209 in Groupware
Summary
by MITRE
Horde 3.3.12, Horde Groupware 1.2.10, and Horde Groupware Webmail Edition 1.2.10, as distributed by FTP between November 2011 and February 2012, contains an externally introduced modification (Trojan Horse) in templates/javascript/open_calendar.js, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2024
This vulnerability represents a sophisticated supply chain attack targeting the Horde web application framework, specifically affecting versions 3.3.12 and 1.2.10 distributed during a critical period from November 2011 to February 2012. The attack vector exploited the trust model inherent in web application distribution by introducing malicious code through a legitimate software update channel. The trojan horse modification was strategically placed within the templates/javascript/open_calendar.js file, which served as an execution point for remote code injection attacks. This particular attack demonstrates how attackers can leverage the inherent trust relationships between software distributors and users to bypass traditional security controls. The vulnerability specifically enabled remote code execution through the manipulation of javascript templates, creating a pathway for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems.
The technical flaw stems from the insecure handling of javascript template files within the Horde framework's web application architecture. When the modified open_calendar.js file was executed, it contained embedded PHP code that would be processed by the web server, effectively transforming what should have been a simple javascript file into a remote code execution vector. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to the improper handling of dynamically generated code within web applications. The attack exploits the fundamental principle that web servers process javascript files containing php code, creating an execution environment where attacker-controlled code can be interpreted and executed with the privileges of the web application. The modification was subtle enough to avoid detection by standard security scanning tools while providing maximum exploitation potential.
The operational impact of this vulnerability was severe for organizations running affected versions of Horde, as it provided attackers with complete control over the affected web servers. Remote code execution capabilities allowed threat actors to perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's impact extended beyond immediate system compromise to include potential lateral movement within networks, as attackers could use compromised Horde installations as launch points for broader attacks. Organizations relying on Horde Groupware, Horde Groupware Webmail Edition, or Horde 3.3.12 were particularly vulnerable because these applications typically handled sensitive user data and served as critical communication platforms. The attack could result in complete system compromise, data loss, and potential regulatory compliance violations, making it a critical security concern for enterprises and organizations managing email and collaboration systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability required immediate action including emergency patching of affected systems, thorough security auditing of all distributed software components, and implementation of strict software integrity verification processes. Organizations should have implemented network monitoring to detect suspicious code execution patterns and employed application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized javascript template modifications. The incident highlighted the importance of supply chain security and the need for cryptographic verification of software updates, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1195.1 for supplying compromised software and T1210 for exploiting vulnerabilities in software supply chains. Security teams needed to establish robust integrity checking mechanisms for all javascript and php template files, implement continuous monitoring for unauthorized modifications, and develop incident response procedures specifically addressing supply chain compromise scenarios. Additionally, organizations should have reviewed their software distribution practices to ensure all components were verified against known good cryptographic signatures before deployment.