CVE-2017-14268 in 4GEE WiFi MBB
Summary
by MITRE
EE 4GEE WiFi MBB (before EE60_00_05.00_31) devices have XSS in the sms_content parameter in a getSMSlist request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-14268 represents a cross-site scripting flaw discovered in EE 4GEE WiFi MBB devices running firmware versions prior to EE60_00_05.00_31. This security weakness specifically affects the sms_content parameter within the getSMSlist request functionality, creating a significant vector for malicious exploitation. The vulnerability exists within the web interface of these mobile broadband devices, which are commonly deployed in enterprise and consumer environments for wireless connectivity. The affected devices are part of the 4GEE WiFi MBB product line manufactured by EE, a major telecommunications provider in the uk. This particular implementation allows for unauthorized code execution through crafted input parameters, making it a critical concern for network security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the device's web management interface. When a user submits a getSMSlist request containing malicious content in the sms_content parameter, the device fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before rendering it in the web interface. This allows an attacker to inject malicious javascript code that executes in the context of the victim's browser session. The flaw manifests as a classic reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability where the malicious payload is reflected back to the user through the device's response. According to CWE-79, this vulnerability maps directly to the CWE-79 "Cross-site Scripting" category, specifically representing a reflected XSS attack vector. The vulnerability classifies under ATT&CK technique T1212 "Exploitation for Credential Access" as it can potentially be leveraged to steal session cookies or user credentials through malicious script execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities within the device management interface. An attacker could potentially hijack administrator sessions, extract sensitive configuration data, or even modify device settings through the compromised interface. The vulnerability affects the device's web-based management system, which typically requires authentication to access, but the XSS flaw allows for execution of malicious code in the context of authenticated users. This creates a scenario where an attacker could gain unauthorized access to device management functions, potentially leading to complete device compromise or network infiltration. The affected firmware versions suggest this vulnerability has remained unpatched for an extended period, increasing the risk exposure for organizations still using these devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14268 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to the latest available versions that contain proper input validation and output sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to these devices to authorized personnel only, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block suspicious parameter values in getSMSlist requests, particularly those containing javascript payload patterns. Regular security assessments of networked devices should include vulnerability scanning for similar XSS flaws in management interfaces. The implementation of content security policies can provide additional protection against reflected XSS attacks by restricting the sources from which scripts can be executed. Organizations should also establish monitoring procedures to detect unusual access patterns or attempts to exploit known vulnerabilities in their networked device inventory. According to NIST guidelines for vulnerability management, this type of vulnerability requires immediate remediation due to its classification as a high-risk security flaw that can lead to complete system compromise when exploited by skilled attackers.