CVE-2018-18674 in GNUBOARD5
Summary
by MITRE
GNUBOARD5 5.3.1.9 has XSS that allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the "board tail contents" parameter, aka the adm/board_form_update.php bo_content_tail parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/19/2024
GNUBOARD5 version 5.3.1.9 contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that enables remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML code through the board tail contents parameter. This vulnerability specifically affects the adm/board_form_update.php endpoint where the bo_content_tail parameter is processed without adequate input validation or output sanitization. The flaw resides in how the application handles user-supplied content that is intended for board configuration settings, creating an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of a victim's browser. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws as weaknesses in web applications that allow attackers to inject client-side scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This type of vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it can be exploited to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect victims to malicious websites. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it targets administrative configuration parameters that are typically handled with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to compromise the entire board system. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.008 which covers the use of scripting languages for execution, and T1566 which covers spearphishing with a link. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks including credential theft through session hijacking, data exfiltration, or establishing persistent access to the affected system. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges as it targets the administrative interface, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that rely on GNUBOARD5 for content management and user interaction. Organizations should immediately implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied content, particularly for parameters used in administrative functions, and ensure that output encoding is properly implemented to prevent script execution in web contexts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and patch management processes to identify and remediate such flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors in the wild.