CVE-2017-16567 in Media Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Logitech Media Server 7.9.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a "favorite."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2025
The Cross-site scripting vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16567 affects the Logitech Media Server version 7.9.0, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute malicious web scripts or HTML code within the context of affected systems. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the "favorite" functionality of the media server, which is designed to allow users to save and manage their preferred content and settings. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the server's web interface, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject crafted payloads that can be executed by other users interacting with the system. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which categorizes it as a classic cross-site scripting flaw where untrusted data flows into web pages without proper sanitization, making it a prime target for exploitation in web-based attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when users create or modify favorite entries within the Logitech Media Server interface, which then gets rendered in the web browser without adequate protection against malicious input. Attackers can craft specially formatted favorite names or descriptions that contain embedded script tags or other HTML elements designed to execute malicious code when viewed by other users. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers Scripting for execution of malicious code through web interfaces. The server fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it in web contexts, allowing the injected code to execute in the victim's browser context with the privileges of the logged-in user. This creates a potential for session hijacking, data theft, or further exploitation of the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-16567 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can lead to complete system compromise when attackers leverage the vulnerability to establish persistent access or perform privilege escalation attacks. Users who interact with the media server through web interfaces become potential victims, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple users may access shared media servers. The vulnerability affects not only individual user sessions but also the broader network infrastructure, as compromised users could inadvertently expose sensitive information or serve as entry points for lateral movement within the network. Organizations using Logitech Media Server 7.9.0 face significant risk of unauthorized access to their media libraries and potential data exfiltration, especially when the server is accessible from untrusted networks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit, making it attractive to threat actors seeking low-hanging fruit in network security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16567 should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of vendor patches or updates to Logitech Media Server versions that address the XSS vulnerability. Organizations must implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent malicious data from being rendered in web contexts without sanitization. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the media server to untrusted networks, while regular security assessments should verify that no unauthorized modifications have occurred. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding practices in web applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards that emphasize the need for robust protection against XSS attacks in web-based systems.