CVE-2013-4211 in OpenX Source
Summary
by MITRE
A Code Execution Vulnerability exists in OpenX Ad Server 2.8.10 due to a backdoor in flowplayer-3.1.1.min.js library, which could let a remote malicious user execute arbitrary PHP code
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4211 represents a critical code execution flaw in the OpenX Ad Server version 2.8.10 that stems from a malicious backdoor embedded within the flowplayer-3.1.1.min.js JavaScript library. This backdoor was intentionally introduced into the third-party library and subsequently incorporated into the OpenX platform, creating a persistent security risk that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The vulnerability specifically exploits the insecure handling of user input within the ad server's processing pipeline, where the malicious JavaScript code can be triggered through crafted requests that ultimately translate into server-side code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the flowplayer library's JavaScript code to include malicious payloads that bypass normal input validation mechanisms. When the OpenX server processes ad requests containing malicious parameters, the backdoor code within the flowplayer library executes and translates into PHP code execution on the web server. This represents a classic case of a supply chain attack where a legitimate third-party component is compromised to provide a persistent backdoor for attackers. The vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" as the attack vector involves JavaScript-based code injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using OpenX Ad Server 2.8.10, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, modify content, and potentially establish persistent access through the backdoor. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the advertising platform, potentially compromising user data, advertising campaigns, and the overall security posture of the organization. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and reputational damage if their ad servers are compromised, as attackers could use the platform to distribute malware or conduct further attacks against users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-4211 require immediate action to address the compromised library and implement comprehensive security measures. Organizations must update or replace the vulnerable flowplayer-3.1.1.min.js library with a legitimate, secure version and conduct thorough security audits of all third-party components used in their systems. Regular vulnerability assessments and dependency scanning should be implemented to identify similar backdoors or compromised libraries in other software components. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect suspicious JavaScript execution patterns and anomalous code behavior. Additionally, organizations should implement proper input validation, access controls, and regular security patching processes to prevent similar supply chain attacks from compromising their systems. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of supply chain security and the need for organizations to maintain comprehensive visibility into their software dependencies and their security status.