CVE-2014-8690 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in Exponent CMS before 2.1.4 patch 6, 2.2.x before 2.2.3 patch 9, and 2.3.x before 2.3.1 patch 4 allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) PATH_INFO, the (2) src parameter in a none action to index.php, or the (3) "First Name" or (4) "Last Name" field to users/edituser.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The CVE-2014-8690 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw affecting Exponent CMS versions prior to specific patch releases. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the content management system, creating multiple attack vectors that adversaries can exploit to execute malicious scripts in the context of affected users' browsers. The vulnerability impacts several major version branches including 2.1.4 patch 6, 2.2.3 patch 9, and 2.3.1 patch 4, indicating a widespread issue affecting the CMS's core functionality.
The technical exploitation occurs through four distinct parameters that fail to properly sanitize user input before processing. The first vector involves the PATH_INFO parameter which allows attackers to inject malicious content directly into the server's path information handling mechanism. The second vulnerability exists in the src parameter of the none action within index.php, where improper validation permits script injection attacks. Additionally, the "First Name" and "Last Name" fields in the users/edituser functionality present attack surfaces where malicious payloads can be submitted and subsequently executed when user data is rendered on web pages. These vulnerabilities align with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to perform session hijacking, deface websites, steal user credentials, and potentially escalate privileges within the CMS environment. When attackers exploit these vectors, they can manipulate the CMS interface, modify content, or redirect users to malicious websites. The vulnerability particularly affects authenticated users who have access to the user management functionality, creating opportunities for privilege escalation attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for scripting and T1566 for social engineering techniques, as attackers can craft convincing phishing campaigns using the compromised CMS.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8690 require immediate patching of affected Exponent CMS installations to the recommended versions that include proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers including client-side and server-side filtering, employ Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and conduct regular security audits of CMS components. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring user account modifications can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust security practices to prevent unauthorized script injection attacks in web-based content management systems.