CVE-2017-0107 in SharePoint Server
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft SharePoint Server fails to sanitize crafted web requests, allowing remote attackers to run cross-script in local security context, aka "Microsoft SharePoint XSS Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0107 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within Microsoft SharePoint Server that exploits insufficient input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability resides in the server's handling of crafted web requests, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing or rendering it within web responses. The flaw specifically affects SharePoint Server versions that do not adequately filter or escape special characters in incoming HTTP requests, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79 as a Cross-Site Scripting weakness, which occurs when web applications fail to properly validate or escape user input before incorporating it into dynamically generated HTML content.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers construct malicious HTTP requests containing script code within parameters or headers that SharePoint Server processes without adequate sanitization. When legitimate users subsequently access pages that contain the maliciously crafted input, the embedded scripts execute within the security context of the victim's browser session. This local security context execution means that the malicious code operates with the privileges and permissions of the authenticated user, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive data, modify content, or perform actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability affects SharePoint Server's web interface processing components, particularly those responsible for handling user input in forms, search queries, or other interactive elements where user-supplied data is rendered back to the browser.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0107 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and compromise entire SharePoint environments. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious websites, or manipulate SharePoint's user interface to display false information. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where SharePoint servers host sensitive business data and collaborative content, as successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to confidential documents, or disruption of business operations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it allows attackers to execute malicious scripts within the victim environment, and T1566.001 for Phishing, as attackers can craft deceptive content that appears legitimate to users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0107 require immediate implementation of Microsoft's security patches and updates, as the vulnerability was addressed through official security releases. Organizations should ensure all SharePoint Server installations are updated to versions that include proper input sanitization mechanisms and HTML escaping routines. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures by filtering suspicious requests before they reach the SharePoint servers. Input validation should be implemented at multiple layers including application-level sanitization, parameterized queries, and proper HTML escaping of user-supplied content. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual request patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security assessments should verify that SharePoint configurations properly enforce security controls. Organizations should also implement least privilege access controls and monitor user activities for signs of unauthorized access or data manipulation that could result from successful exploitation of this vulnerability.