CVE-2017-17837 in DeltaSpike-JSF
Summary
by MITRE
The Apache DeltaSpike-JSF 1.8.0 module has a XSS injection leak in the windowId handling. The default size of the windowId get's cut off after 10 characters (by default), so the impact might be limited. A fix got applied and released in Apache deltaspike-1.8.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-17837 affects the Apache DeltaSpike-JSF 1.8.0 module and represents a cross-site scripting vulnerability related to windowId handling within the JavaScript framework. This flaw exists in the way the system processes and manages window identifiers, which are used to maintain state information for web applications. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of windowId parameters that are transmitted between client and server components.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs in the windowId processing logic where the default windowId value gets truncated after exactly 10 characters. This truncation behavior creates a potential injection point where malicious actors could craft specially formatted windowId values that, when processed, could lead to XSS execution. The vulnerability specifically impacts the JavaScript-based window management functionality that DeltaSpike provides for JSF applications. The default truncation limit of 10 characters creates a constrained environment where attacker-controlled input can potentially bypass normal security checks and inject malicious scripts into the application's response.
From an operational perspective, the impact of this vulnerability is considered moderately severe due to the default truncation behavior that limits the attack surface. However, the vulnerability still represents a legitimate security risk as it allows for potential script injection in contexts where windowId values are processed and rendered back to users. The fix implemented in Apache DeltaSpike 1.8.1 addresses this by properly sanitizing windowId inputs and ensuring that the truncation logic does not create exploitable conditions. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 Cross-site Scripting and follows patterns commonly seen in web application security flaws where insufficient input validation leads to code execution in user browsers.
The mitigation strategy involves upgrading to Apache DeltaSpike version 1.8.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and enhanced windowId handling mechanisms. Organizations should also implement proper content security policies and input validation at multiple layers of their web applications to prevent similar issues. Security teams should monitor for any custom implementations that might be using the vulnerable windowId functionality and ensure comprehensive testing of all JavaScript-based state management components. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables attackers to execute malicious scripts in user browsers through web application interfaces.