CVE-2018-20322 in LimeSurvey
Summary
by MITRE
LimeSurvey contains an XSS vulnerability while uploading a ZIP file, resulting in JavaScript code execution against LimeSurvey admins.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-20322 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the LimeSurvey platform that specifically manifests during the ZIP file upload process. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic web content. The flaw exists in the file upload handling mechanism where LimeSurvey does not adequately validate or escape the filenames contained within uploaded ZIP archives, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject persistent JavaScript code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker uploads a malicious ZIP file containing a specially crafted filename that includes embedded JavaScript payloads. When the LimeSurvey administration interface processes this file, the application renders the malicious filename without proper sanitization, allowing the JavaScript code to execute within the context of the admin's browser session. This creates a persistent threat vector where administrators who view the file listing or interact with the upload process become victims of the stored XSS attack. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it targets privileged users with administrative access, amplifying the potential impact of the exploit.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized access to sensitive administrative functions within the LimeSurvey environment. The JavaScript code execution can be leveraged to steal session cookies, perform actions on behalf of the administrator, or redirect users to malicious sites. The attack surface is expanded through the file upload mechanism, which is a common vector for initial compromise in web applications. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability is particularly concerning because it does not require complex exploitation techniques and can be triggered through routine administrative file management activities.
Organizations utilizing LimeSurvey should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all file upload components, particularly filename handling within ZIP archives. The recommended approach involves implementing strict filename validation that removes or encodes potentially dangerous characters, implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and ensuring proper output encoding when displaying filenames in web interfaces. Additionally, the application should be updated to the latest patched version that addresses this specific vulnerability. Security controls should include monitoring for unusual file upload activities and implementing principle of least privilege access controls for administrative functions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a web application vulnerability exploitation technique that can lead to privilege escalation and persistent access within targeted environments.