CVE-2016-6800 in Javascript
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the OFBiz framework offers a blog functionality. Different users are able to operate blogs which are related to specific parties. In the form field for the creation of new blog articles the user input of the summary field as well as the article field is not properly sanitized. It is possible to inject arbitrary JavaScript code in these form fields. This code gets executed from the browser of every user who is visiting this article. Mitigation: Upgrade to Apache OFBiz 16.11.01.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2019
The CVE-2016-6800 vulnerability resides within the Apache OFBiz framework's default blog functionality, representing a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that exploits improper input sanitization in web applications. This vulnerability specifically affects the blog article creation form where both the summary and article fields fail to properly validate or sanitize user input, creating an avenue for malicious code injection that can compromise user sessions and execute unauthorized actions. The flaw exists in the application's data handling process where user-supplied content flows directly into the web page without adequate sanitization, making it susceptible to malicious script injection attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows the typical XSS attack pattern where an attacker crafts malicious JavaScript code within the blog creation form fields, which then executes in the browsers of all users who view the compromised article. This represents a reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The vulnerability demonstrates a critical weakness in the application's input validation mechanisms, where the framework fails to implement proper output encoding or sanitization routines for user-generated content, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts that can steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of victims.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to compromise user sessions and potentially escalate privileges within the OFBiz environment. When users visit blog articles containing malicious JavaScript, their browsers execute the injected code, which can lead to session hijacking, data theft, or further exploitation of the application. This vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of user data within the OFBiz framework, particularly when users with elevated privileges view compromised blog content, as it could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to party-related information or perform administrative actions. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the framework's legitimate blog functionality, making it difficult for users to distinguish between legitimate and malicious content.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate application of the recommended patch to Apache OFBiz version 16.11.01, which includes proper input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures such as content security policies, input validation at multiple layers, and regular security assessments of web applications. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers the exploitation of web application vulnerabilities through social engineering or direct injection attacks. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls, regular code reviews focusing on input validation, and user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted blog content. The fix addresses the root cause by ensuring that user input undergoes proper sanitization before being rendered in web pages, preventing malicious code from executing in victim browsers and maintaining the integrity of the application's user interface components.