CVE-2017-7534 in OpenShift Enterprise
Summary
by MITRE
OpenShift Enterprise version 3.x is vulnerable to a stored XSS via the log viewer for pods. The flaw is due to lack of sanitation of user input, specifically terminal escape characters, and the creation of clickable links automatically when viewing the log files for a pod.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7534 affects OpenShift Enterprise version 3.x and represents a significant security weakness in the platform's log viewing functionality. This issue stems from inadequate input sanitization mechanisms within the pod log viewer component, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject persistent cross-site scripting payloads. The vulnerability specifically targets the terminal escape character handling and automatic link creation features that are integral to the log display system, making it particularly dangerous within containerized environments where administrators frequently monitor application logs for operational insights.
The technical flaw manifests when user input containing malicious scripts is stored within the pod logs and subsequently rendered without proper sanitization. The system automatically processes terminal escape sequences and creates clickable links from log content, which provides attackers with multiple vectors for injection. When administrators or automated systems view these logs through the web interface, the stored malicious code executes in the context of the victim's browser session, potentially leading to complete compromise of the administrative interface. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of CWE-79 Cross-site Scripting and CWE-20 Improper Input Validation, as it combines inadequate output encoding with insufficient input sanitization processes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges within the OpenShift environment. Since the log viewer is typically accessed by users with administrative privileges, successful exploitation could allow threat actors to view sensitive system information, manipulate log data, or redirect users to malicious sites. The persistent nature of stored XSS means that the vulnerability remains active until the affected logs are cleared or the application is patched, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to maintain access to the system. This issue particularly affects container orchestration environments where log monitoring is critical for security operations and system maintenance.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-7534 should focus on implementing comprehensive input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms within the log viewer component. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied content is properly escaped before being displayed in the web interface, with particular attention to terminal escape sequences and URL patterns that could trigger automatic link creation. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers and regular security scanning of log content can provide additional layers of protection. According to ATT&CK framework category T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, this vulnerability represents a technique that can be used to execute malicious code through web interfaces, making it essential for organizations to maintain up-to-date security controls and monitor for signs of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads through compromised log files that appear legitimate to system administrators.