CVE-2017-1540 in Doors Web Access
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Doors Web Access 9.5 and 9.6 is vulnerable to cross-site scripting. This vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI thus altering the intended functionality potentially leading to credentials disclosure within a trusted session. IBM X-Force ID: 130808.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2025
IBM Doors Web Access versions 9.5 and 9.6 contain a critical cross-site scripting vulnerability that fundamentally compromises the security posture of the web interface. This weakness exists in the application's input validation mechanisms, where user-supplied data is not properly sanitized before being rendered back to the browser. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. Attackers can exploit this issue by injecting malicious javascript code through various input fields within the web UI, potentially including comments, notes, or other user-editable content areas. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a trusted session, meaning that successful exploitation could allow threat actors to steal session cookies, credentials, or other sensitive information from authenticated users. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1531 which focuses on credential access through malicious input manipulation, and represents a significant risk to organizations relying on IBM Doors Web Access for collaborative requirements management and documentation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete session hijacking and potential privilege escalation within the application. When an authenticated user interacts with a maliciously crafted input, their browser executes the embedded javascript code within the context of the legitimate application, effectively bypassing security controls. This behavior creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by attackers who gain access to the application through social engineering or other initial compromise methods. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Doors Web Access is used for managing sensitive requirements, specifications, and documentation, as it could enable attackers to access confidential business information or manipulate critical project data. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be automated, making it a preferred target for both insider threats and external attackers seeking to exploit trusted web applications.
Organizations must implement immediate mitigations to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability, including deploying web application firewalls, implementing strict input validation policies, and applying the vendor-provided security patches. The recommended approach involves comprehensive output encoding and sanitization of all user-supplied content before rendering in the web interface, following OWASP secure coding practices. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing content security policies to prevent execution of unauthorized javascript code, and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications within the environment. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and highlights the need for robust security controls in collaborative platforms where user-generated content is prevalent. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure readiness for potential exploitation of this type of vulnerability, as the attack can remain undetected for extended periods while maintaining access to sensitive systems and data.