CVE-2012-0791 in IMP
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in Horde IMP before 5.0.18 and Horde Groupware Webmail Edition before 4.0.6 allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) composeCache, (2) rtemode, or (3) filename_* parameters to the compose page; (4) formname parameter to the contacts popup window; or (5) IMAP mailbox names. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2025
The CVE-2012-0791 vulnerability represents a significant cross-site scripting flaw affecting the Horde IMP email client and Horde Groupware Webmail Edition webmail platforms. This vulnerability exists in versions prior to 5.0.18 for IMP and 4.0.6 for Groupware Webmail Edition, creating a persistent security risk for organizations relying on these email systems. The flaw manifests through multiple attack vectors that specifically target the web interface components of these applications, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through various user interaction points within the email client's functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the Horde webmail applications. Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts through five distinct parameter vectors including composeCache, rtemode, filename_* parameters on the compose page, formname parameter in contacts popup windows, and IMAP mailbox names. These parameters are processed without proper sanitization, allowing malicious code to be executed in the context of authenticated users' browsers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer, targeting the web interface components rather than underlying system vulnerabilities, which makes it more accessible to attackers without requiring system-level privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0791 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable sophisticated attacks including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. When exploited, these XSS vulnerabilities can allow attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in users' browsers, potentially leading to complete compromise of user sessions and access to sensitive email communications. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability affects core email functionality such as composing messages, accessing contacts, and viewing mailboxes, meaning that any user interaction with these features could potentially expose them to attack. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which is categorized under the OWASP Top Ten as a critical web application security risk, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Scripting.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including immediate patching to versions 5.0.18 or 4.0.6 respectively, depending on their platform. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering malicious payloads, though these should not be considered a substitute for proper patching. Input validation should be strengthened across all user-facing parameters, particularly those related to email composition and mailbox handling. Security teams should also consider implementing content security policies to limit script execution capabilities and conduct thorough security assessments of their webmail infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date web application security practices and highlights the need for continuous monitoring of security advisories for all deployed web applications.