CVE-2014-9272 in MantisBT
Summary
by MITRE
The string_insert_href function in MantisBT 1.2.0a1 through 1.2.x before 1.2.18 does not properly validate the URL protocol, which allows remote attackers to conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks via the javascript:// protocol.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9272 affects MantisBT version 1.2.0a1 through 1.2.x before 1.2.18, specifically within the string_insert_href function. This flaw represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that arises from inadequate input validation mechanisms. The issue stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize URL protocols when processing user-supplied data, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of a victim's browser session. The vulnerability specifically targets the validation of URL protocols, allowing attackers to bypass security controls by utilizing the javascript:// protocol in their malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the string_insert_href function processes URLs submitted by users, particularly in contexts where hyperlinks are displayed or manipulated within the application interface. The function fails to enforce strict protocol validation, permitting the javascript:// protocol to pass through without proper sanitization. This protocol allows execution of javascript code directly within the browser context, making it a potent vector for XSS attacks. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a Cross-Site Scripting flaw, specifically manifesting as an injection vulnerability where attacker-controlled data is improperly integrated into web pages viewed by other users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to perform a range of malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. When exploited, the javascript:// protocol can be used to execute arbitrary javascript code within the victim's browser, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive data, modify application functionality, or redirect users to phishing sites. The vulnerability affects all versions within the specified range, indicating a prolonged period where the issue remained unaddressed, increasing the potential attack surface and exposure time for affected organizations. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, demonstrating how attackers can leverage web-based scripting environments to execute malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Organizations should immediately upgrade to MantisBT version 1.2.18 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper URL protocol validation that explicitly rejects javascript:// and other potentially dangerous protocols can prevent similar issues. The fix should include sanitizing all user-supplied URLs to ensure only safe protocols such as http://, https://, and ftp:// are accepted. Security measures should also include content security policy implementations that restrict script execution and prevent unauthorized code injection. Regular security assessments and input validation reviews are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other application components, particularly in functions that handle user-provided data and URL manipulation.