CVE-2017-1000057 in GetSimple
Summary
by MITRE
A reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability in GetSimple CMS version 3.3.13 and earlier, allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary JavaScript in the URL-field for the administrative login page (/admin/index.php).
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2021
The reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000057 affects GetSimple CMS versions 3.3.13 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the administrative login interface. This vulnerability specifically targets the URL field within the administrative login page located at /admin/index.php, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute malicious JavaScript code through crafted input. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or encode user-supplied data before rendering it within the web application's response. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws as weaknesses in web applications that allow attackers to inject client-side scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it directly targets the administrative interface, potentially enabling unauthorized access to critical system functions and user data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to hijack user sessions, steal administrative credentials, and potentially gain full control over the CMS installation. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing JavaScript payload and convinces an administrator to click on the link, the script executes within the administrator's browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, data exfiltration, or privilege escalation. The reflected nature of the vulnerability means that the malicious script is reflected back to the user from the web server without being stored, making it particularly difficult to detect through traditional security monitoring approaches. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which describes social engineering tactics used to gain initial access to systems through phishing or malicious links. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where administrators frequently click on links from untrusted sources or where the administrative interface is accessible from public networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000057 should prioritize immediate remediation through upgrading to GetSimple CMS version 3.3.14 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the reflected XSS vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms across all user-facing interfaces, particularly those handling administrative functions. The implementation of Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can provide additional defense-in-depth measures by restricting the sources from which scripts can be loaded and executed within the browser context. Regular security audits and penetration testing should include verification of input sanitization mechanisms and proper output encoding practices. Security awareness training for administrators should emphasize the dangers of clicking on untrusted links and the importance of verifying URL integrity before accessing administrative interfaces. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring capabilities to detect and block malicious payloads attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The remediation process should also include reviewing and updating the application's security configuration to ensure that all user inputs are properly validated and that output is appropriately escaped before being rendered in web responses.