CVE-2018-0716 in QTS
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting vulnerability in QTS 4.2.6 build 20180711, QTS 4.3.3: Qsync Central 3.0.2, QTS 4.3.4: Qsync Central 3.0.3, QTS 4.3.5: Qsync Central 3.0.4 and earlier versions could allow remote attackers to inject Javascript code in the compromised application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/16/2020
This cross-site scripting vulnerability exists within QTS (QNAP Turbo Server) operating system versions 4.2.6 build 20180711 through 4.3.5, specifically affecting Qsync Central components version 3.0.2 through 3.0.4 and earlier. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious javascript code into the vulnerable application, creating a persistent security risk that could compromise user sessions and data integrity. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web application's user interface components that handle user-supplied data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic XSS flaw where user-controllable parameters are not properly sanitized before being rendered in web pages. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that get executed in the context of other users' browsers when they view affected pages. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that QTS operates as a network-attached storage platform with web-based management interfaces, making it accessible to both internal and external threat actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it could enable attackers to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users, and potentially escalate privileges within the QTS environment. When combined with other attack vectors, this XSS vulnerability could facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as session hijacking, data exfiltration, or even complete system compromise. The affected Qsync Central component specifically handles file synchronization and sharing functionality, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to access sensitive user data stored in the QTS environment.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of vendor-provided security patches and updates to the latest available versions of QTS and Qsync Central components. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures such as input validation at multiple layers, output encoding for all dynamic content, and web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads. The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access through social engineering. Network segmentation and monitoring of suspicious web traffic patterns can help detect exploitation attempts and provide early warning of potential compromise. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the QTS ecosystem and ensure comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors.