CVE-2018-1795 in Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere Enterprise 10 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: 149073.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2023
IBM Robotic Process Automation with Automation Anywhere Enterprise 10 contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security flaw in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting attacks where malicious scripts are injected into web applications. The flaw enables attackers to embed arbitrary JavaScript code within the web user interface, fundamentally compromising the application's integrity and user trust. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web application's rendering pipeline, allowing malicious payloads to be executed in the context of authenticated users' sessions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, creating significant risks for enterprise environments that rely on automated processes and sensitive data handling. When exploited, the XSS vulnerability can lead to credential disclosure within trusted sessions, as attackers can harvest session tokens, login credentials, or other sensitive information from authenticated users. This represents a severe threat to the confidentiality and integrity of automated workflows, potentially allowing adversaries to gain unauthorized access to robotic process automation tasks and associated data. The attack surface is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where automation solutions handle critical business processes and sensitive information.
The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing comprehensive input sanitization and output encoding strategies as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform session hijacking, deface web interfaces, or redirect users to malicious sites that appear legitimate within the trusted domain. The IBM X-Force ID 149073 indicates this vulnerability was recognized and tracked by IBM's security team, highlighting its severity in enterprise environments. Organizations using this automation platform face potential compromise of their entire robotic process automation infrastructure, as the vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the user interface and potentially escalate privileges within the automated workflow environment.
Mitigation strategies should include implementing strict input validation, output encoding, and Content Security Policy headers to prevent script injection. Organizations must ensure proper web application security controls are in place, including regular security assessments and patch management procedures. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of following security best practices such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 standards for protecting enterprise automation platforms. Regular security training for developers and administrators is essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations, particularly focusing on secure coding practices that address the specific requirements for web application security in automated environments.