CVE-2017-3132 in FortiOS
Summary
by MITRE
A Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.6.0 and earlier allows attackers to Execute unauthorized code or commands via the action input during the activation of a FortiToken.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3132 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.6.0 and earlier, specifically manifesting during the activation process of FortiToken authentication devices. This weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data within the action parameter of the FortiToken activation workflow. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, demonstrating how web-based attacks can escalate to unauthorized code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input containing script code within the action parameter during FortiToken activation. The FortiOS system fails to adequately filter or escape special characters in this input field, allowing malicious scripts to be executed within the context of a victim's browser session. This flaw enables attackers to inject arbitrary JavaScript code that can manipulate the web interface, potentially leading to session hijacking, data exfiltration, or further exploitation of the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because FortiToken devices are commonly used for two-factor authentication, making this attack vector capable of compromising authentication systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3132 extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to escalate privileges within the Fortinet network security environment. Successful exploitation could allow threat actors to bypass authentication mechanisms, access sensitive administrative interfaces, or manipulate security policies. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on FortiOS for network security, potentially exposing critical infrastructure to unauthorized access. Given that FortiToken devices are widely deployed for secure authentication, this vulnerability could compromise the integrity of multi-factor authentication systems, undermining the security posture of affected organizations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of FortiOS systems to versions that address the input validation flaw in the FortiToken activation process. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure while applying updates. Additional protective measures include monitoring web application logs for suspicious activity, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious script injection attempts, and conducting regular security assessments of authentication systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in web applications and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of authentication mechanisms, particularly those handling sensitive token-based authentication workflows.