CVE-2017-18024 in AvantFAX
Summary
by MITRE
AvantFAX 3.3.3 has XSS via an arbitrary parameter name to the default URI, as demonstrated by a parameter whose name contains a SCRIPT element and whose value is 1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2024
CVE-2017-18024 represents a cross-site scripting vulnerability discovered in AvantFAX version 3.3.3, a web-based fax management system that allows users to send and receive faxes through a web interface. This vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's parameter handling process, specifically when processing arbitrary parameter names passed to the default URI. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious script code through parameter names, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the core level of the application's request processing mechanism.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a parameter name that contains a SCRIPT element, allowing malicious JavaScript code to be executed within the context of a victim's browser session. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in web applications. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the default URI handling mechanism rather than requiring specific endpoints, making it more broadly exploitable across the application's functionality. When a victim accesses a maliciously crafted URL containing the specially formatted parameter, the script code embedded in the parameter name executes in the victim's browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform persistent attacks against users of the AvantFAX system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish a foothold within the organization's fax management infrastructure, potentially accessing sensitive information or manipulating fax operations. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that expose their AvantFAX installations to untrusted networks or users. This weakness directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering attacks through malicious links and payloads, and T1059 which addresses command and control through scripting languages.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18024 should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application's parameter processing pipeline. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of AvantFAX that addresses this vulnerability, as the vendor has released updates to correct the input sanitization flaws. Additionally, implementing a web application firewall (WAF) with XSS protection rules can provide additional defense in depth. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the fax management system to untrusted users. Regular security assessments and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper parameter sanitization and output encoding in web applications, particularly in systems that process user-supplied data through URI parameters.