CVE-2017-17925 in Professional Service Script
Summary
by MITRE
PHP Scripts Mall Professional Service Script has XSS via the admin/general_settingupd.php website_title parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17925 affects the PHP Scripts Mall Professional Service Script, specifically targeting the admin/general_settingupd.php endpoint. This issue represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability manifests through the website_title parameter, which fails to properly sanitize user input before processing and storing it within the application's configuration settings. When administrators or users view pages that display this title parameter, the malicious script code executes in their browser context, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.
This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which defines Cross-Site Scripting as a weakness where a web application fails to properly validate or escape user-controllable data before including it in output that is sent to web browsers. The attack vector specifically targets the administrative interface of the service script, making it particularly dangerous as it could allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges or manipulate critical system settings. The vulnerability is classified as a stored XSS when the malicious payload is permanently stored on the server and executed whenever the affected page is accessed, or as a reflected XSS if the payload is reflected back to users through URLs or form submissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it provides attackers with the capability to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive administrative credentials, or redirect users to malicious websites. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to inject JavaScript code that captures user input, modifies application behavior, or establishes persistent access to the compromised system. Given that this affects the general settings management interface, successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise if the attacker gains administrative access. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers scripting through web shells and malicious scripts, potentially allowing for further lateral movement within the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17925 should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-controllable inputs before processing them, particularly parameters used in configuration settings. Developers should implement strict validation rules that reject or escape potentially dangerous characters and patterns commonly associated with XSS attacks. Additionally, employing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can provide an additional layer of protection by restricting the sources from which scripts can be executed. Organizations should also ensure that the affected script is updated to the latest version provided by the vendor, as this vulnerability was likely addressed in subsequent releases. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should include verification of input handling mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future development cycles.