CVE-2018-14040 in Bootstrap
Summary
by MITRE
In Bootstrap before 4.1.2, XSS is possible in the collapse data-parent attribute.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14040 represents a cross-site scripting flaw within the Bootstrap JavaScript framework that affects versions prior to 4.1.2. This issue specifically targets the collapse component functionality where the data-parent attribute fails to properly sanitize user input, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into web applications. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the Bootstrap library's implementation of collapsible elements.
The technical flaw manifests when developers utilize the data-parent attribute in Bootstrap collapse components without proper sanitization of user-supplied data. This attribute is designed to specify the parent element for a collapse component, but when user input is directly incorporated into this attribute without proper validation, it creates an XSS vector. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that exploit this weakness by injecting script tags or other malicious code into the data-parent attribute, which then executes in the context of other users browsing the affected web application. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, specifically targeting the improper handling of user-controllable data in web application components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, deface web applications, steal sensitive user data, or redirect users to malicious websites. The vulnerability affects any web application that utilizes Bootstrap's collapse functionality and incorporates user-supplied data into the data-parent attribute without proper sanitization. This creates a persistent security risk that can remain undetected for extended periods, particularly in large applications where input validation might not be consistently applied across all components. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213 - Data from Information Repositories, as it allows attackers to exploit web application weaknesses to access and manipulate user data through malicious script execution.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation through updating to Bootstrap version 4.1.2 or later, which includes proper input sanitization for the data-parent attribute. Additionally, developers should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding practices for all user-supplied data used in web application components. The mitigation strategy should also include regular security assessments of third-party libraries and frameworks, along with implementing content security policies to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts. Security teams should conduct thorough code reviews focusing on data handling practices in JavaScript frameworks and maintain updated inventories of all third-party components to ensure timely patch management and vulnerability remediation.