CVE-2014-9743 in VLC Media Player
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the httpd_HtmlError function in network/httpd.c in the web interface in VideoLAN VLC Media Player before 2.2.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the path info.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2022
The CVE-2014-9743 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the VideoLAN VLC Media Player web interface, specifically within the httpd_HtmlError function located in network/httpd.c. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 2.2.0 and enables remote attackers to execute malicious scripts by manipulating path information parameters. The flaw exists in the web server component that VLC uses to provide its graphical interface, making it accessible through network connections. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML code directly into the web interface, potentially compromising user sessions and system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the httpd_HtmlError function. When VLC processes HTTP requests containing malformed or malicious path information, the function fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before rendering it in the web interface. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled input can be executed as client-side scripts in the context of the victim's browser. The vulnerability is classified as a classic XSS attack vector, specifically falling under CWE-79 which describes improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The flaw demonstrates poor security practices in web application development where user input is directly incorporated into dynamic web content without proper sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious websites. An attacker could craft specially formatted URLs that, when accessed through a vulnerable VLC instance, would execute malicious JavaScript code in the victim's browser. This could potentially lead to unauthorized access to network resources, data exfiltration, or further exploitation of the compromised system. The vulnerability affects both local and remote attack scenarios since VLC's web interface can be accessed from external networks, making it a significant threat to users who have the web interface enabled. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for scripting and T1566 for phishing, as it enables the delivery of malicious content through compromised web interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9743 primarily focus on updating to VLC version 2.2.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerability. Users should also disable the web interface component when it is not actively needed, as this reduces the attack surface significantly. Network administrators should implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms for any web applications that process user input. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and content security policies to provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper secure coding practices, particularly in web server implementations, and underscores the need for regular security updates and vulnerability assessments to maintain system integrity.