CVE-2017-17971 in ERP
Summary
by MITRE
The test_sql_and_script_inject function in htdocs/main.inc.php in Dolibarr ERP/CRM 6.0.4 blocks some event attributes but neither onclick nor onscroll, which allows XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17971 resides within the Dolibarr ERP/CRM version 6.0.4, specifically in the test_sql_and_script_inject function located in the htdocs/main.inc.php file. This issue represents a cross-site scripting vulnerability that arises from incomplete input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The function attempts to block certain event attributes but fails to address critical javascript event handlers including onclick and onscroll attributes, creating a significant security gap in the application's defensive posture against malicious script injection attacks.
The technical flaw manifests as a failure in the application's security filtering mechanism where the test_sql_and_script_inject function implements partial protection against SQL injection and script injection attempts. While the function successfully blocks some event attributes, it leaves critical javascript event handlers such as onclick and onscroll unfiltered, allowing attackers to inject malicious javascript code through these overlooked vectors. This incomplete sanitization creates a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary javascript code within the context of a victim's browser session, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or further exploitation of the vulnerable system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it enables attackers to leverage the application's legitimate functionality against its users. When a victim interacts with a maliciously crafted page or form input that contains the injected javascript code, the onclick or onscroll handlers can trigger malicious behavior such as redirecting users to phishing sites, stealing session cookies, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability particularly affects users who have administrative privileges or access to sensitive data within the Dolibarr system, potentially allowing attackers to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized access to critical business information.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws as weaknesses in input validation and output encoding, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting languages, specifically targeting the execution of malicious scripts through web-based interfaces. Organizations using Dolibarr ERP/CRM version 6.0.4 face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited by attackers without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users interact with potentially untrusted content. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of incomplete input validation where security measures are implemented but fail to account for all possible attack vectors, creating a false sense of security.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the Dolibarr application to version 6.0.5 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through comprehensive input validation and sanitization. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures such as content security policy headers to restrict script execution, regular security audits of input validation mechanisms, and user education regarding the risks of interacting with untrusted content. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense, though these should not be relied upon as the sole mitigation strategy. The vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough security testing and validation of input filtering mechanisms, particularly in web applications where user input can influence application behavior through event handlers and javascript execution contexts.