CVE-2017-1560 in DOORS Next Generation
Summary
by MITRE
IBM DOORS Next Generation (DNG/RRC) 4.0, 5.0, and 6.0 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: 131759.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1560 affects IBM DOORS Next Generation (DNG/RRC) versions 4.0, 5.0, and 6.0, representing a critical cross-site scripting flaw that compromises the web-based user interface of this requirements management and traceability tool. This vulnerability resides in the application's input validation mechanisms, where user-supplied data is not properly sanitized before being rendered back to the browser, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors. The flaw specifically impacts the web UI components that handle user inputs, allowing attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that executes within the context of legitimate user sessions. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a fundamental web application security weakness that enables attackers to manipulate the behavior of web applications viewed by other users. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to implement proper output encoding and input sanitization measures, particularly in areas where users can submit data through web forms, comments, or other interactive elements within the DNG/RRC interface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a significant risk for credential theft and session hijacking within trusted environments. When authenticated users interact with the vulnerable application, malicious JavaScript code injected through the XSS flaw can access and exfiltrate session cookies, authentication tokens, and potentially sensitive data that the user has access to within the DNG/RRC system. This represents a serious threat to the integrity of the requirements management processes, as attackers could not only steal credentials but also manipulate requirements data, alter traceability links, or inject malicious content that could propagate throughout the system. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1531 for credential access through web application vulnerabilities, and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage in web-based attacks. The attack can be executed through various means including phishing campaigns, compromised user accounts, or by leveraging other vulnerabilities to deliver the malicious payload, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where DNG/RRC is used for critical system requirements and compliance documentation.
Organizations utilizing affected IBM DNG/RRC versions face substantial risk of unauthorized access and data compromise, particularly in environments where the system handles sensitive requirements data, compliance information, or proprietary system specifications. The vulnerability's ability to execute within the context of trusted sessions means that attackers can potentially access data beyond what they would normally have permission to view, creating a significant escalation of privileges threat. Security teams should consider the potential for this vulnerability to be used as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks, including lateral movement within networks where DNG/RRC is integrated with other systems. The impact is particularly severe in regulated environments where requirements traceability and audit trails are critical, as malicious actors could manipulate or corrupt the very data that the system is designed to protect and track. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, output encoding, and proper content security policies to prevent exploitation, while also planning for the necessary software updates and patches provided by IBM to address this specific vulnerability. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper web application security controls and the need for continuous security assessment of enterprise tools that handle sensitive business data and requirements management processes.