CVE-2018-17034 in UCMS
Summary
by MITRE
UCMS 1.4.6 has XSS via the install/index.php mysql_dbname parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17034 affects UCMS version 1.4.6 and represents a cross-site scripting flaw that resides within the installation component of the software. This particular vulnerability manifests through the install/index.php file where the mysql_dbname parameter becomes susceptible to malicious input injection. The flaw exists in the context of the web application's installation process, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during the initial setup phase when administrators are configuring database connections. The vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the installation script. When the mysql_dbname parameter is processed without proper escaping or encoding of user-supplied data, it creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code. This occurs because the application fails to properly handle special characters and script tags that users might enter into the database name field during installation. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, where the application incorporates untrusted data into web pages without proper validation or escaping mechanisms. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input sanitization that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code in the victim's browser context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the target environment. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious websites, or even perform actions on behalf of authenticated users within the application. During the installation phase, this vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited before the application is fully configured, potentially allowing attackers to compromise the entire installation process. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal skill level, making it attractive to threat actors who may be seeking to gain unauthorized access to web applications. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers the use of script-based attacks, specifically targeting web applications through input injection methods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-17034 should focus on immediate patching of the UCMS application to version 1.4.7 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application, particularly in installation and configuration scripts where user input is processed. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution, while regular security audits of installation scripts should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. Input sanitization should be enforced at multiple layers including client-side validation, server-side processing, and database interaction points. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The fix should include proper escaping of special characters and validation of database name parameters to ensure they conform to expected formats without allowing script injection. Additionally, administrators should be educated about the risks associated with running unpatched software and the importance of applying security updates promptly to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.