CVE-2015-8755 in TYPO3
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in unspecified backend components in TYPO3 6.2.x before 6.2.16 and 7.x before 7.6.1 allow remote authenticated editors to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2022
The CVE-2015-8755 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in TYPO3 content management systems that affected versions 6.2.x prior to 6.2.16 and 7.x prior to 7.6.1. This vulnerability specifically targets backend components within the TYPO3 framework, creating a significant risk for authenticated users who possess editor privileges. The flaw enables remote attackers with legitimate editorial access to execute cross-site scripting attacks that could potentially compromise the entire administrative interface and underlying system integrity.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within TYPO3's backend administrative components. Attackers with editor accounts can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious scripts or HTML code through unspecified vectors within the CMS interface. These vectors likely involve form fields, configuration parameters, or content management interfaces where user input is not properly escaped or validated before being rendered back to users. The vulnerability's classification as a cross-site scripting flaw aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of input during web page generation, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to escalate privileges or steal session cookies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it creates a persistent threat vector for authenticated attackers within the TYPO3 administration environment. Remote authenticated editors could leverage this flaw to execute malicious code in the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, data exfiltration, or privilege escalation within the CMS. This attack vector particularly concerns organizations relying on TYPO3 for content management, as it allows attackers to compromise the administrative interface through legitimate user accounts, bypassing traditional perimeter security measures.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in web application frameworks, especially within administrative interfaces where privileged access exists. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the T1059.001 technique, which involves the execution of malicious code through web applications, while also aligning with T1548.001 related to privilege escalation. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management strategies to address this vulnerability, ensuring all TYPO3 installations are updated to versions 6.2.16 or later and 7.6.1 or later. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious administrative activities can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts.