CVE-2017-3008 in ColdFusion
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe ColdFusion 2016 Update 3 and earlier, ColdFusion 11 update 11 and earlier, ColdFusion 10 Update 22 and earlier have a reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2020
Adobe ColdFusion versions up to and including 2016 Update 3, ColdFusion 11 Update 11, and ColdFusion 10 Update 22 contain a reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows remote attackers to inject malicious scripts into web applications. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the ColdFusion application server, specifically in how it processes and renders user-supplied parameters in HTTP responses. The flaw exists in the handling of query string parameters and form data that are directly reflected back to users without proper sanitization or encoding, creating an avenue for attackers to execute malicious JavaScript code in the context of a victim's browser session. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a weakness in input validation and output encoding, representing a classic reflected xss attack vector where malicious payloads are injected through web application parameters and executed when users navigate to maliciously crafted URLs. This vulnerability enables attackers to perform session hijacking, deface web applications, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious sites, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ColdFusion servers host critical business applications. The operational impact extends beyond simple script execution as it can lead to complete compromise of user sessions and potential lateral movement within network environments where ColdFusion applications are deployed. Organizations running these vulnerable versions face significant risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive corporate information. The attack surface is broad since ColdFusion applications are commonly used for web application development and often handle user input through various interface points, making the reflected xss vulnerability particularly impactful. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script injection and T1566.001 for spearphishing with malicious attachments, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads through crafted web requests. The remediation strategy involves applying the official patches released by Adobe for each affected version, which include proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent malicious script execution. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input validation rules, and regular security assessments can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future.
The technical implementation of this reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability stems from the application server's failure to properly sanitize user input before rendering it in HTTP responses. When ColdFusion processes incoming requests containing user-supplied parameters, it fails to adequately encode special characters such as angle brackets, quotes, and script tags that could be interpreted as executable code by web browsers. This weakness allows attackers to craft malicious URLs containing javascript payloads that, when executed, can steal session cookies, redirect users, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ColdFusion applications often serve as backend systems for enterprise web applications, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to gain access to sensitive corporate data. The attack requires minimal technical expertise and can be executed through simple URL manipulation, making it a preferred vector for automated exploitation tools. Security controls such as content security policies, proper input validation, and output encoding should be implemented as immediate mitigations while applying vendor patches. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-79 emphasizes the fundamental importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding practices that should be enforced throughout application development lifecycle processes. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected ColdFusion installations and ensure that security updates are applied promptly to prevent exploitation. The presence of this vulnerability in widely deployed ColdFusion versions means that many organizations may be exposed to risk without realizing it, highlighting the critical need for continuous security monitoring and patch management processes.