CVE-2016-1157 in Script* Log-Chat
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in log_chat.cgi in Script* Log-Chat before 2.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2018
The CVE-2016-1157 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the Script* Log-Chat web application, specifically within the log_chat.cgi component of versions prior to 2.0. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML content into the application's chat logging functionality, potentially compromising user sessions and data integrity. The unspecified vectors suggest that the attack could occur through various input points within the chat logging mechanism, making the vulnerability particularly challenging to defend against. This type of vulnerability directly violates the principle of input validation and proper output encoding, creating an environment where malicious code can execute in the context of other users' browsers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when unvalidated user input is processed and displayed within the chat log interface without proper sanitization or encoding. When users interact with the chat functionality, their inputs are stored in the log and subsequently rendered to other users viewing the chat history. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that, when executed, can steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple script execution as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration. The fact that this affects the chat logging component means that even legitimate users could inadvertently expose themselves to attacks if malicious content is injected into the chat history.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1157 is substantial, particularly in environments where chat functionality serves as a communication channel for sensitive information exchange. Organizations using Script* Log-Chat versions before 2.0 face significant risks including unauthorized access to chat logs, potential data breaches, and compromised user trust. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable version is deployed, making it an attractive target for attackers who can leverage the chat system for reconnaissance and further attacks. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments, as the malicious chat content could serve as a delivery mechanism for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability also supports techniques like T1531 for account access and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the Script* Log-Chat application to version 2.0 or later, which would contain the necessary fixes for input validation and output encoding. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures, including the use of Content Security Policy headers to prevent unauthorized script execution. The application should enforce strict output encoding when displaying user-generated content, particularly in chat interfaces where the risk of XSS is elevated. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other web applications. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring chat log activities for suspicious patterns can provide additional layers of protection. The remediation process should include thorough testing of the patched version to ensure that legitimate functionality remains intact while the vulnerability is eliminated. Organizations should also consider implementing user education programs to raise awareness about the risks of clicking on suspicious links or content within chat systems, as social engineering remains a common attack vector that complements technical vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-1157.