CVE-2017-1751 in Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere 10.0.0 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: 135546.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1751 affects IBM Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere version 10.0.0, representing a critical cross-site scripting flaw that exposes the system to malicious code injection attacks. This vulnerability resides within the web user interface component of the automation platform, where insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it in the browser context. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code through web forms, parameters, or other input vectors that are subsequently executed in the context of authenticated user sessions. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-79 indicates a failure in input validation and output encoding, specifically targeting the web application's ability to properly handle user-provided content without executing unintended code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the intended functionality of the automation platform. When authenticated users interact with the vulnerable web interface, malicious JavaScript code can be executed within their browser context, potentially enabling session hijacking, credential theft, and unauthorized access to sensitive automation workflows. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it operates within a trusted session environment, meaning that attackers can leverage existing authentication to perform actions that would normally require explicit authorization. This creates a significant risk for organizations relying on automation platforms for critical business processes, as the compromise of a single user session could lead to widespread unauthorized access to automated workflows and associated data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting JavaScript execution within web browsers. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that redirect users to phishing pages, steal session cookies, or inject additional malicious scripts that persist across user interactions. The vulnerability's presence in the Automation Anywhere platform specifically targets the web-based management interface, which is commonly used by administrators and operators to configure, monitor, and control robotic processes. This makes the attack surface particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by both internal and external threat actors who gain access to the web interface through various means such as credential compromise, social engineering, or other initial access vectors.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, beginning with immediate patching of the affected IBM Robotic Process Automation version 10.0.0 to address the cross-site scripting flaw. Network segmentation and web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and filter suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Input validation controls must be strengthened at all points where user-supplied data enters the system, including web forms, API endpoints, and parameter handling mechanisms. Regular security testing including dynamic application security testing and manual penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in the automation platform and related components. Additionally, security awareness training for administrators and users should emphasize the importance of recognizing potentially malicious web content and maintaining strong session management practices to minimize the impact of potential exploitation attempts.