CVE-2013-7326 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in vTiger CRM 5.4.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) return_url parameter to modules\com_vtiger_workflow\savetemplate.php, or unspecified vectors to (2) deletetask.php, (3) edittask.php, (4) savetask.php, or (5) saveworkflow.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2022
The CVE-2013-7326 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw discovered in vTiger CRM version 5.4.0, specifically targeting the return_url parameter within the modules directory. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a fundamental web application security weakness that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's parameter handling system, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted HTTP requests.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing script code within the return_url parameter and delivers it to unsuspecting users through social engineering tactics or by embedding it in phishing emails. When a victim clicks the malicious link, the script executes in the victim's browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions within the CRM system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate return_url functionality that applications commonly use for redirecting users after authentication or form submissions, making the malicious payload appear to originate from a trusted source. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which describes social engineering through spearphishing with a malicious attachment or link, making the exploitation vector both sophisticated and highly effective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges within the CRM environment and potentially access sensitive customer data, business records, and confidential communications stored within the vTiger system. Organizations using this version of the CRM face significant risk of data breaches, compliance violations, and reputational damage if this vulnerability remains unpatched. The vulnerability affects the core authentication and navigation mechanisms of the application, potentially allowing attackers to create backdoors, modify user permissions, or exfiltrate data through the compromised session. The attack surface is particularly broad since the return_url parameter is commonly used throughout the application's modules, making it a high-value target for exploitation. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the information security posture, as it provides a pathway for attackers to bypass traditional security controls and gain unauthorized access to business-critical information systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-7326 should include immediate patching of the vTiger CRM application to version 5.4.1 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input sanitization measures, including strict parameter validation, output encoding, and the implementation of Content Security Policies to prevent unauthorized script execution. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious URL patterns and anomalous user behavior. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and ensure proper security hardening practices are maintained across the organization's IT infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust input validation mechanisms as fundamental security controls that prevent such widespread exploitation opportunities.