CVE-2017-9338 in ownCloud Server
Summary
by MITRE
Inadequate escaping lead to XSS vulnerability in the search module in ownCloud Server before 8.2.12, 9.0.x before 9.0.10, 9.1.x before 9.1.6, and 10.0.x before 10.0.2. To be exploitable a user has to write or paste malicious content into the search dialogue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9338 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the search functionality of ownCloud Server versions prior to specific patch releases. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, where inadequate input sanitization allows malicious code execution in the context of a victim's browser. The issue specifically affects the search module component of the ownCloud platform, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of this file synchronization and sharing solution in enterprise environments.
The technical flaw manifests when users interact with the search dialogue functionality by writing or pasting malicious content that contains script tags or other executable code elements. The insufficient escaping mechanisms fail to properly sanitize user input before rendering it within the web interface, creating an environment where attacker-controlled payloads can be executed when other users view search results or interact with the affected module. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires user interaction to be exploited, making it a classic example of a client-side attack vector that leverages the trust relationship between the web application and its users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as it can enable attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including credential theft, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation within the ownCloud environment. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of authenticated users, potentially compromising the entire user session and enabling further lateral movement within the network. The attack requires minimal user interaction since the malicious payload is embedded within the search functionality itself, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently search for various content.
Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for Phishing and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, as it exploits a weakness in user-facing application components to deliver malicious payloads. The remediation strategy involves upgrading to the patched versions of ownCloud Server including 8.2.12, 9.0.10, 9.1.6, and 10.0.2 respectively, which implement proper input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as web application firewalls, regular security assessments, and user education about the dangers of pasting untrusted content into application interfaces to reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components.