CVE-2014-9561 in SoftBB
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in redir_last_post_list.php in SoftBB 0.1.3 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the post parameter.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9561 represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw within the SoftBB 0.1.3 forum software, specifically targeting the redir_last_post_list.php component. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category, which defines improper neutralization of input during web page generation as a critical weakness in web applications. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content into the application's response, potentially compromising user sessions and data integrity.
The technical execution of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the post parameter within the redir_last_post_list.php script. When the application processes user input without proper sanitization or output encoding, it creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can be rendered as part of the web page content. This unvalidated input processing creates a direct pathway for XSS exploitation, allowing remote attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability specifically affects the forum's redirection functionality, where user-provided post identifiers are directly incorporated into the response without adequate security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, and the potential for more sophisticated attacks such as defacement or data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage this flaw to steal cookies, modify forum content, redirect users to malicious sites, or even establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without requiring physical access to the system or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for public-facing forum applications where user interaction is expected.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9561 should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-provided input before processing or rendering, particularly for parameters that are directly incorporated into HTML responses. Organizations should implement Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, employ proper HTML escaping techniques, and consider using secure framework functions that automatically handle input sanitization. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and patch management, as this flaw existed in a relatively old version of the software and could have been addressed through timely updates. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting web applications through input manipulation techniques.