CVE-2017-15574 in Redmine
Summary
by MITRE
In Redmine before 3.2.6 and 3.3.x before 3.3.3, stored XSS is possible by using an SVG document as an attachment.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2017-15574 represents a critical stored cross-site scripting flaw in Redmine versions prior to 3.2.6 and 3.3.x before 3.3.3. This vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a victim's browser through specially crafted SVG attachments. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the Redmine attachment handling system, specifically when processing Scalable Vector Graphics files. Attackers can upload malicious SVG files that contain embedded JavaScript code, which then executes when other users view the attachment within the Redmine interface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of SVG file types during the attachment upload process. Redmine fails to properly sanitize SVG content, allowing attackers to embed malicious script tags or event handlers within the SVG structure. When other users access the project page where the malicious attachment is stored, their browsers execute the embedded scripts, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. This stored XSS vulnerability operates at the application level and affects all users who have access to the affected Redmine instance, making it particularly dangerous in collaborative environments where multiple users interact with shared project data.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15574 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to sensitive project information. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 Cross-site Scripting and follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 Accessing Data from Cloud Storage. Organizations using Redmine in development environments, issue tracking systems, or collaborative platforms face significant risk when this vulnerability exists, as attackers can leverage it to compromise entire project databases and user sessions. The stored nature of the vulnerability means that malicious payloads persist even after the initial upload, creating ongoing security risks for all users who encounter the compromised content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15574 include immediate patching to versions 3.2.6 or 3.3.3 and later, which contain proper input validation and sanitization for SVG attachments. Organizations should implement strict file type validation and content inspection mechanisms for all uploaded attachments, particularly those with scripting capabilities. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth, though they are not substitutes for proper application-level fixes. Security teams should conduct comprehensive audits of all user-uploaded content and implement regular security scanning of attachments to detect potential malicious files. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted attachments and implementation of principle of least privilege access controls can help minimize the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.