CVE-2018-14905 in 3CX
Summary
by MITRE
The Web server in 3CX version 15.5.8801.3 is vulnerable to Reflected XSS on the api/CallLog TimeZoneName parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/13/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14905 affects the 3CX Web server component in version 15.5.8801.3, specifically targeting the api/CallLog endpoint where the TimeZoneName parameter is susceptible to reflected cross-site scripting attacks. This represents a critical security weakness that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the system. The vulnerability resides within the server-side processing of API calls related to call log management, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that rely on 3CX for telecommunications infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests when the web server fails to properly sanitize or escape user input received through the TimeZoneName parameter in the api/CallLog endpoint. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing script code within this parameter, the server reflects the malicious content back to the user's browser without adequate validation or encoding. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and more precisely aligns with CWE-74 which deals with injection flaws where untrusted data is sent to a web browser without proper sanitization. The reflected nature of this vulnerability means that the malicious script is executed in the victim's browser context when they click on a malicious link or visit a compromised page, making it particularly effective for phishing attacks and session hijacking.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can enable attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities within the compromised environment. An attacker could potentially steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, modify page content, or even escalate privileges within the 3CX system. Given that 3CX serves as a critical telecommunications platform for many organizations, this vulnerability could compromise call data, voicemail systems, and potentially provide unauthorized access to sensitive communication channels. The attack surface is further expanded since the vulnerability affects the API endpoint which may be accessible to various system components and external users, making it a significant risk for organizations relying on the platform for business-critical communications.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and output encoding for all parameters received through the api/CallLog endpoint, particularly the TimeZoneName parameter. The recommended approach involves implementing proper sanitization of user inputs using established security libraries and frameworks that can prevent script injection attempts. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection against reflected XSS attacks by restricting the sources from which scripts can be loaded. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1212 Exploitation for Credential Access, as reflected XSS can be used to steal authentication tokens and session information. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other endpoints and ensure that all system components are properly protected against injection attacks.