CVE-2018-18608 in DeDeCMS
Summary
by MITRE
DedeCMS 5.7 SP2 allows XSS via the function named GetPageList defined in the include/datalistcp.class.php file that is used to display the page numbers list at the bottom of some templates, as demonstrated by the PATH_INFO to /member/index.php, /member/pm.php, /member/content_list.php, or /plus/feedback.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2020
The vulnerability CVE-2018-18608 represents a cross-site scripting flaw discovered in DedeCMS version 5.7 SP2, specifically within the GetPageList function located in the include/datalistcp.class.php file. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it in web pages. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes page navigation elements, particularly in member areas and plus modules, where the function handles URL parameters and displays pagination controls to users.
The technical exploitation occurs through manipulation of PATH_INFO parameters that are passed to member area scripts including /member/index.php, /member/pm.php, /member/content_list.php, and /plus/feedback.php. When these endpoints process user input without adequate sanitization, the GetPageList function incorporates malicious script code directly into the generated HTML output. This allows attackers to inject arbitrary JavaScript code that executes in the context of other users' browsers who view affected pages. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79 as a failure to sanitize user input, specifically manifesting as a reflected cross-site scripting attack that leverages the application's own functionality to deliver malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or defacement, as it enables attackers to perform session hijacking, redirect users to malicious sites, or execute arbitrary commands within the victim's browser context. The affected member areas and plus modules represent high-value targets since they typically contain sensitive user information and administrative functions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, steal session cookies, or gain unauthorized access to user accounts with elevated permissions. The persistence of this flaw across multiple endpoints demonstrates a systemic weakness in the application's input handling architecture rather than an isolated incident.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-18608 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the DedeCMS application. The immediate fix requires sanitizing all user-provided parameters before they are processed by the GetPageList function, particularly when these inputs are rendered in pagination controls. Organizations should implement proper HTML escaping for all dynamic content, ensuring that special characters are properly encoded to prevent script execution. The solution aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as it addresses the execution of malicious scripts through web-based interfaces. Additionally, applying the official security patches released by DedeCMS developers and implementing web application firewalls with XSS detection capabilities would provide layered defense against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other application components.