CVE-2018-6682 in True Key
Summary
by MITRE
Cross Site Scripting Exposure in McAfee True Key (TK) 4.0.0.0 and earlier allows local users to expose confidential data via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6682 represents a critical cross site scripting exposure within McAfee True Key version 4.0.0.0 and earlier releases. This flaw exists within the client-side web application component of the security software, specifically affecting how the application handles user input and renders web content. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize data before it is processed and displayed within the browser environment. Attackers can exploit this weakness by constructing malicious web pages that trigger the XSS vulnerability when viewed through the affected McAfee True Key application.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the scope of CWE-79 which categorizes cross site scripting flaws as a result of improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The flaw operates as a local privilege escalation vector since the attack requires the victim to interact with a malicious website while the vulnerable McAfee True Key application is running in the background. This creates a dangerous scenario where legitimate security software becomes a vector for data exfiltration and credential theft. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because McAfee True Key is designed to manage sensitive authentication credentials and personal data, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to harvest confidential information.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability exposes organizations to significant risk as it allows attackers to access sensitive data stored within the True Key application. The local nature of the exploit means that users must visit a malicious website while the vulnerable software is active, but this attack vector is particularly concerning given that users often interact with untrusted websites while using security software. The vulnerability enables attackers to potentially access stored passwords, authentication tokens, and other sensitive information managed by the True Key application. This represents a fundamental breach of trust where legitimate security software becomes a conduit for data theft rather than a protective barrier.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the ATT&CK framework under the T1566 technique for Phishing and T1071 for Application Layer Protocol usage. Attackers can craft convincing web pages that appear legitimate while simultaneously exploiting the XSS vulnerability to extract user credentials and other confidential data. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to McAfee True Key version 4.0.1.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerability. Additional protective measures include deploying web application firewalls, implementing strict content security policies, and conducting user awareness training to recognize potential phishing attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper input validation and output encoding practices in web applications, particularly those handling sensitive user data, and demonstrates how even security tools can become attack vectors when not properly secured against common web vulnerabilities.