CVE-2017-18006 in NetPublish
Summary
by MITRE
netpub/server.np in Extensis Portfolio NetPublish has XSS in the quickfind parameter, aka Open Bug Bounty ID OBB-290447.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18006 resides within the Extensis Portfolio NetPublish application, specifically in the netpub/server.np component. This flaw manifests as a cross-site scripting vulnerability that affects the quickfind parameter, making it susceptible to malicious input manipulation. The vulnerability was discovered through the Open Bug Bounty platform and assigned the identifier OBB-290447, indicating its recognition within the security community as a legitimate concern requiring remediation.
This cross-site scripting vulnerability operates through the manipulation of the quickfind parameter which is used for searching functionality within the NetPublish server interface. When user input is not properly sanitized or validated, an attacker can inject malicious script code that executes in the context of other users' browsers who access the affected application. The vulnerability specifically impacts the server-side processing of search queries, where the quickfind parameter fails to implement adequate input validation or output encoding mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking. An attacker could leverage this XSS flaw to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the victim's browser, potentially leading to full account compromise, data exfiltration, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability affects users who interact with the Portfolio NetPublish application, particularly those who perform search operations through the quickfind functionality. Given that this is a server-side component, the attack surface is broad and could impact multiple users within the organization who utilize the application for content management or publishing tasks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 Cross-site Scripting flaws, which specifically addresses the improper handling of user-provided data in web applications. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for Initial Access through spearphishing attachments and T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter through JavaScript execution. Organizations using Extensis Portfolio NetPublish should prioritize immediate remediation through proper input validation, output encoding, and parameter sanitization. The recommended mitigation includes implementing strict input validation for all parameters, particularly those used in search and query functions, and ensuring proper HTML encoding of output data to prevent script execution in browser contexts. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and regular security code reviews can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles.