CVE-2018-11553 in Xiangyun Platform
Summary
by MITRE
SGIN.CN xiangyun platform V9.4.10 has XSS via the login_url parameter to /login.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11553 affects the SGIN.CN xiangyun platform version 9.4.10, specifically targeting the login functionality through the login_url parameter in the /login.php endpoint. This represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The flaw exists within the platform's authentication mechanism where user-supplied input is not properly sanitized or validated before being processed and returned to the browser.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing XSS payloads within the login_url parameter and convinces a victim to visit the specially crafted link. When the victim's browser loads the page, the malicious script executes in the context of the victim's session, potentially stealing authentication tokens, session cookies, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments or links.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to the platform through session hijacking or credential theft. An attacker could potentially escalate privileges by exploiting this vulnerability to gain administrative access to the xiangyun platform, which would compromise the entire system. The platform's authentication flow becomes compromised, allowing unauthorized individuals to bypass normal access controls and potentially access sensitive data or perform administrative functions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include implementing proper input validation and output encoding for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in authentication flows. The platform should employ a comprehensive web application firewall to detect and block malicious payloads, and implement Content Security Policy headers to prevent script execution. Regular security testing including dynamic application security testing and manual penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the vendor should release a patch that properly sanitizes the login_url parameter and ensures that all user input is validated against a strict whitelist of acceptable characters and formats. Organizations using this platform should immediately update to the patched version and consider implementing monitoring for suspicious login patterns or unusual activity in the authentication logs.