CVE-2014-9041 in ownCloud
Summary
by MITRE
The import functionality in the bookmarks application in ownCloud server before 5.0.18, 6.x before 6.0.6, and 7.x before 7.0.3 does not validate CSRF tokens, which allow remote attackers to conduct CSRF attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9041 represents a critical security flaw in the ownCloud server's bookmark management system that stems from inadequate cross-site request forgery token validation. This weakness exists specifically within the import functionality of the bookmarks application, affecting multiple versions of the ownCloud server platform including versions prior to 5.0.18, 6.x versions before 6.0.6, and 7.x versions before 7.0.3. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery weaknesses in software applications. The core issue lies in the absence of proper CSRF token validation during the bookmark import process, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to execute unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental principle of CSRF protection mechanisms that should validate the authenticity of requests originating from legitimate users. In the affected ownCloud versions, when users attempt to import bookmarks through the web interface, the system fails to verify the presence or validity of CSRF tokens that should accompany such operations. This omission creates a scenario where an attacker can craft malicious web pages or emails containing embedded links that, when clicked by an authenticated user, automatically execute bookmark import operations without the user's knowledge or consent. The attack vector typically involves tricking users into visiting malicious websites or opening compromised email attachments that contain specially crafted requests designed to leverage the existing user session and perform unauthorized import operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation, as it provides attackers with the capability to inject malicious bookmarks or potentially redirect users to harmful websites through the imported bookmark content. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where ownCloud serves as a central collaboration platform, as authenticated users may inadvertently trigger malicious import operations that could lead to further compromise of the system or data exfiltration. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which describes social engineering tactics involving the manipulation of users to perform actions that compromise their systems. Additionally, the flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices that could potentially enable more sophisticated attacks if combined with other vulnerabilities present in the platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9041 should prioritize immediate application of the vendor-provided security patches that implement proper CSRF token validation in the bookmark import functionality. Organizations should also consider implementing additional defensive measures such as network-based intrusion detection systems that can monitor for suspicious import patterns or unauthorized bookmark modifications. Security administrators should review and harden the overall web application security posture by ensuring all user-facing operations validate CSRF tokens appropriately and by implementing comprehensive logging of import activities for audit purposes. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and the necessity of implementing robust security controls that validate all user interactions, particularly those involving data import or modification operations that could potentially alter system state or user data.