CVE-2016-8952 in Management Platform
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Emptoris Strategic Supply Management Platform 10.0.0.x through 10.1.1.x is vulnerable to cross-site scripting. This vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI thus altering the intended functionality potentially leading to credentials disclosure within a trusted session. IBM X-Force ID: 118839.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8952 affects IBM Emptoris Strategic Supply Management Platform versions 10.0.0.x through 10.1.1.x, representing a critical cross-site scripting flaw that undermines the platform's web interface security. This vulnerability resides within the web application's input validation mechanisms, where user-supplied data fails to be properly sanitized before being rendered back to the browser. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code through web forms, URL parameters, or other input fields, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple user sessions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient output encoding and input validation within the platform's web UI components. When legitimate users interact with the system, their input data is not adequately filtered or escaped before being displayed in web pages, creating an environment where attacker-controlled scripts can execute within the context of authenticated sessions. This particular weakness aligns with CWE-79, which categorizes cross-site scripting vulnerabilities as a result of inadequate input validation and output encoding practices. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is heightened by the platform's role in managing sensitive supply chain data, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise user credentials and access privileged information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to hijack user sessions and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive procurement data, supplier information, and financial records. When users with elevated privileges interact with the compromised platform, attackers can exploit the XSS vulnerability to steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or modify page content to capture login credentials. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the platform operates within enterprise environments where users maintain trusted sessions with elevated privileges, allowing for lateral movement and data exfiltration. This vulnerability directly maps to several techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for scripting, specifically targeting web application interfaces to execute malicious code within user contexts.
Organizations utilizing this platform face significant risk of credential theft, data manipulation, and unauthorized access to critical supply chain information. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple minor versions suggests a systemic issue in the platform's security architecture that requires immediate attention. Effective mitigation strategies include implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms, deploying web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments of web interfaces. Additionally, organizations should enforce strict content security policies, implement proper session management practices, and ensure that all users receive security awareness training regarding the risks of interacting with untrusted web content. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining secure coding practices and regular security updates in enterprise web applications, particularly those handling sensitive business data.