CVE-2017-14744 in UEditor
Summary
by MITRE
UEditor 1.4.3.3 has XSS via the SRC attribute of an IFRAME element.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-14744 represents a cross-site scripting weakness in the UEditor rich text editor version 1.4.3.3 that specifically targets the handling of iframe source attributes. This flaw allows attackers to inject malicious scripts through the src parameter of iframe elements, creating a persistent security risk within web applications that utilize this editor component. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the editor's processing pipeline, where user-supplied content containing iframe tags with unescaped or improperly validated src attributes can execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser session. The issue manifests when the editor fails to properly escape or validate the source URL of iframe elements, enabling attackers to craft malicious payloads that can hijack user sessions, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious websites.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws as weaknesses in input validation and output encoding. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by injecting iframe elements with malicious src attributes containing javascript protocols or external malicious scripts, bypassing the editor's security controls through insufficient sanitization of user input. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK framework as part of the Initial Access phase, specifically through the use of web-based attacks targeting web applications. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows for persistent XSS attacks where malicious scripts can be stored and executed whenever the compromised content is rendered, making it a significant threat to web application security and user data protection.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14744 extends beyond simple script execution to encompass comprehensive session hijacking capabilities and data exfiltration risks. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability can enable attackers to steal cookies, session tokens, and other sensitive user credentials, potentially leading to full account compromise and unauthorized access to protected resources. The vulnerability affects web applications that rely on UEditor for content management, particularly those handling user-generated content where administrators or users might inadvertently or maliciously inject iframe elements with malicious source attributes. Organizations using this editor in content management systems, forums, or any platform allowing rich text editing are at risk, as the vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including comment sections, user profiles, or administrative content areas where iframe elements might be legitimately used but can be abused for malicious purposes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14744 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the UEditor component. Organizations should upgrade to patched versions of UEditor that properly sanitize iframe source attributes and implement comprehensive content security policies to restrict iframe loading from untrusted sources. The recommended approach includes implementing strict input validation that filters or removes iframe elements with potentially dangerous src attributes, particularly those containing javascript protocols or external domains without proper domain whitelisting. Security measures should also incorporate the use of CSP headers to restrict iframe loading and prevent execution of malicious scripts, alongside regular security audits of user input processing. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious iframe injection attempts, and conduct regular security training for developers to ensure proper handling of user input and output encoding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the web application stack.