CVE-2017-14960 in Document Sciences xPression
Summary
by MITRE
xDashboard in OpenText Document Sciences xPression (formerly EMC Document Sciences xPression) v4.5SP1 Patch 13 has SQL Injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14960 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the xDashboard component of OpenText Document Sciences xPression version 4.5SP1 Patch 13. This security weakness resides in the web-based administrative interface that allows users to manage and monitor document processing workflows. The flaw enables unauthorized attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through input parameters that are not properly sanitized or validated. The vulnerability specifically affects the xDashboard functionality which serves as a central monitoring and management portal for the document sciences platform, making it a prime target for exploitation due to its administrative privileges and access to sensitive operational data.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability occurs when user-supplied input is directly concatenated into SQL query strings without proper parameterization or input validation mechanisms. Attackers can manipulate query parameters through the web interface to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. This flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without adequate sanitization. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for complete database compromise, enabling attackers to extract sensitive information, modify data, or even escalate privileges within the system. The xDashboard component typically handles user authentication, system configuration, and operational monitoring data, making it a high-value target for threat actors seeking persistent access to enterprise document processing environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive business documents and operational workflows. Organizations using this version of xPression may experience unauthorized data exfiltration, manipulation of document processing workflows, and potential disruption of business operations. The vulnerability affects not only the database integrity but also the overall security posture of enterprises relying on the Document Sciences platform for critical document management processes. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain persistent access to the system, potentially leading to extended periods of undetected compromise that could result in significant financial and reputational damage. The vulnerability also impacts compliance requirements for data protection and regulatory adherence, particularly in industries handling sensitive information such as healthcare, financial services, or government sectors.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates for the Document Sciences xPression platform. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of the vulnerable xDashboard component to untrusted networks. Input validation and parameterized queries should be implemented throughout the application to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous database access patterns and potential exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the technique T1071.004 for Application Layer Protocol: DNS and T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, indicating that attackers may use this vulnerability to establish persistence and conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised environment. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other system components, ensuring comprehensive protection against advanced persistent threats targeting enterprise document processing infrastructure.