CVE-2012-4231 in jCore
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in admin/index.php in jCore before 1.0pre2 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The CVE-2012-4231 vulnerability represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw in the jCore content management system prior to version 1.0pre2. This vulnerability specifically affects the admin/index.php file and exposes the application to remote code execution through malicious script injection. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the path parameter, creating an opening for attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where input validation mechanisms are insufficient to prevent malicious payload injection.
This XSS vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a critical security weakness in web applications. The attack vector operates through the path parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious input that bypasses proper sanitization checks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it targets the administrative interface of the jCore system, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges or access sensitive administrative functions. The flaw enables attackers to execute scripts in the victim's browser context, which can lead to session hijacking, data theft, or further exploitation of the compromised system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it provides attackers with a foothold within the administrative environment of the jCore system. When an authenticated administrator or user visits a page containing the malicious payload, the injected script executes in their browser, potentially leading to complete compromise of the administrative session. The vulnerability can be exploited through various means including phishing attacks, malicious links in email communications, or by manipulating URL parameters to include malicious payloads. This creates a significant risk for organizations using vulnerable versions of jCore, as attackers can leverage the administrative access to perform unauthorized actions within the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4231 should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-provided input, particularly parameters like the path variable, through proper escaping techniques before processing or rendering. Organizations should implement Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution and prevent unauthorized code injection. Additionally, upgrading to jCore version 1.0pre2 or later resolves the vulnerability by incorporating proper input validation and sanitization measures. The implementation of web application firewalls and regular security assessments can further protect against similar vulnerabilities in the future. Security teams should also consider implementing automated scanning tools to identify and remediate similar XSS vulnerabilities across their entire application portfolio.