CVE-2017-11716 in MetInfo
Summary
by MITRE
MetInfo through 5.3.17 allows stored XSS via HTML Edit Mode.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11716 represents a critical stored cross-site scripting flaw within MetInfo content management system versions 5.3.17 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the HTML edit mode functionality where user input is not properly sanitized or validated before being stored in the database and subsequently rendered in web pages. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that persist across user sessions and can be executed whenever affected pages are accessed, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that handle user-generated content or administrative inputs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the MetInfo application's content management interface. When administrators or users create or modify content using the HTML editor, the system fails to properly sanitize HTML tags and script elements from the submitted data. This insufficient sanitization creates a persistent vector where malicious JavaScript code can be stored in the database and executed in the context of other users' browsers who view the affected content. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws, and more precisely aligns with CWE-80 which deals with failure to sanitize input data.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11716 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, redirection to malicious sites, and data exfiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to administrative panels, modify website content, steal user sessions, or even establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system. The stored nature of the vulnerability means that once the malicious payload is injected, it remains active until manually removed, potentially affecting all users who access the affected pages. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers Scripting through the execution of malicious scripts within the web application context.
Organizations utilizing MetInfo versions prior to 5.3.18 should immediately implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including applying the official security patch released by MetInfo developers, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers of the application, and conducting thorough security audits of existing content. Additional protective measures should include implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, regular monitoring of user-generated content for malicious payloads, and establishing secure coding practices that enforce proper HTML sanitization. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and output encoding in web applications, particularly those handling administrative content management features where user inputs are processed and stored for future display.