CVE-2012-0765 in RoboHelp
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in Adobe RoboHelp 8 and 9 for Word allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a crafted URL, related to certain .htm files in (1) template_stock and (2) template_csh directories.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2021
Adobe RoboHelp versions 8 and 9 for Word contain multiple cross-site scripting vulnerabilities that represent a significant security risk for users who process untrusted content. These vulnerabilities exist within the software's handling of crafted URLs and specifically affect files within the template_stock and template_csh directories. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML code through maliciously crafted URLs, creating a persistent vector for exploitation that could compromise user sessions and data integrity. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the software's processing of HTML template files, particularly those used for generating help documentation and content management systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper sanitization of user-supplied input within the software's template processing engine. When RoboHelp encounters a crafted URL within .htm files located in the affected template directories, it fails to properly escape or validate the input before rendering it in the browser context. This failure creates a condition where attacker-controlled content can be executed as part of the web page rendering process, directly violating fundamental security principles of input validation and output encoding. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses the improper handling of user-supplied data that can lead to XSS attacks. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the software's legitimate template processing functionality to deliver malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it enables attackers to perform session hijacking, deface web applications, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious sites. Users who open documents containing crafted URLs within the RoboHelp environment become potential victims of persistent XSS attacks that can compromise their browser sessions and potentially lead to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects not only individual users but also organizations that rely on RoboHelp for documentation generation, as malicious actors could embed payloads within help files that would execute when users open them. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where documentation systems are widely used and where users may inadvertently encounter compromised content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected software versions, as Adobe has released security updates to address these issues. Organizations should implement strict content filtering policies to prevent users from opening untrusted documents containing potentially malicious URLs, particularly within template directories. Network-level controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block malicious URL patterns, while user education about the risks of opening untrusted documents remains crucial. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing least privilege access controls and monitoring for suspicious URL patterns within template files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and output encoding as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten Project, specifically addressing the need for robust sanitization of user-supplied data in web applications and document processing systems. Organizations should also consider the ATT&CK framework's T1211 technique for command and control communications, as the XSS vulnerability could be leveraged for establishing persistent access through malicious script execution.