CVE-2013-2149 in ownCloud
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in ownCloud before 4.0.16 and 5.x before 5.0.7 allow remote authenticated users to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via vectors related to shared files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2149 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw affecting ownCloud versions prior to 4.0.16 and 5.x versions before 5.0.7. This vulnerability specifically targets the file sharing functionality within the ownCloud platform, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of other users' browsers. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the sharing mechanisms that handle file references and metadata. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a classic cross-site scripting flaw, where user-supplied data is improperly sanitized before being rendered in web pages.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when authenticated users manipulate shared file references through crafted input that gets reflected back to other users browsing the shared content. Attackers can leverage this weakness to inject malicious JavaScript code or HTML content that executes in the victim's browser session. The impact extends beyond simple script execution as it can enable session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authentication to the ownCloud system, making it accessible to users with legitimate access rights who may be compromised or acting maliciously.
Operational implications of CVE-2013-2149 are significant for organizations relying on ownCloud for file sharing and collaboration. The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the trust relationship between users and the platform, potentially compromising entire user bases within a single organization. When combined with the ATT&CK technique of credential access through web application attacks, this vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more extensive breaches. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages legitimate sharing features that users expect to work securely, making detection more difficult. Organizations may experience unauthorized data access, potential data exfiltration, and loss of user trust in the platform's security measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2149 should prioritize immediate patching of affected ownCloud installations to versions 4.0.16 or 5.0.7 and later. System administrators should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms for all user-supplied data, particularly in sharing and file reference contexts. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious patterns in file sharing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to provide additional protection layers against XSS attacks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing robust security testing procedures for collaboration platforms. Regular security audits of file sharing mechanisms and user access controls should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future.