CVE-2018-1496 in Content Navigator
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Content Navigator 2.0.3, 3.0.0, 3.0.1, 3.0.2, and 3.0.3 is vulnerable to cross-site scripting. This vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI thus altering the intended functionality potentially leading to credentials disclosure within a trusted session. IBM X-Force ID: 141219.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2023
IBM Content Navigator versions 2.0.3 through 3.0.3 contain a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security weakness in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's web components, allowing malicious actors to inject malicious JavaScript code through user-controllable input fields. The flaw exists in the application's handling of user-supplied data that is subsequently rendered in the web interface without proper sanitization. According to CWE-79, this vulnerability falls under the category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically representing a failure to properly encode output data. The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of a victim's browser session, potentially enabling session hijacking attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates opportunities for credential theft and session manipulation within trusted environments. When users interact with the application's web interface, any malicious JavaScript code injected through this vulnerability can access the user's session cookies and potentially steal authentication credentials. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be achieved through simple input manipulation of web forms or URL parameters. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that, when executed, can capture user credentials, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. This represents a significant risk to organizations relying on IBM Content Navigator for document management and content collaboration, as the attack surface includes all users with access to the web interface.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1531, which describes the use of credential dumping and session hijacking techniques. Organizations utilizing these vulnerable versions face potential data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive content repositories. The vulnerability's presence in multiple versions suggests a systemic flaw in the application's input handling architecture that affects the entire product line. IBM's own X-Force ID 141219 indicates the severity of this issue, as it represents a known vulnerability that requires immediate attention. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through normal user interactions with the application, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional security measures.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch application from IBM, which would address the underlying input validation issues. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious payloads, while establishing robust input sanitization processes. Network segmentation and monitoring of web traffic can help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious web content and regular security assessments of the application environment are recommended. The vulnerability's classification as a persistent security flaw in the application's architecture requires comprehensive remediation beyond simple patching, including code review and implementation of proper output encoding mechanisms throughout the web application framework.