CVE-2018-7205 in Kentico
Summary
by MITRE
Reflected Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in "Design" on "Edit device layout" in Kentico 9 through 11 allows remote attackers to execute malicious JavaScript via a malicious devicename parameter in a link that is entered via the "Pages -> Edit template properties -> Device Layouts -> Create device layout (and edit created device layout) -> Design" screens. NOTE: the vendor has responded that there is intended functionality for authorized users to edit and update ascx code layout
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2018-7205 represents a reflected cross-site scripting flaw in Kentico content management system versions 9 through 11, specifically affecting the device layout editing functionality. This security weakness resides within the "Design" section of the "Edit device layout" interface, where attackers can exploit a malicious devicename parameter to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code. The vulnerability manifests when users navigate through the administrative path of Pages -> Edit template properties -> Device Layouts -> Create device layout (and edit created device layout) -> Design, making it accessible through legitimate administrative workflows that should remain secure from malicious input manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding within the device layout parameter handling mechanism. When the system processes the devicename parameter without proper sanitization, it fails to escape special characters that could be interpreted as HTML or JavaScript code. This reflected XSS vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers who view the affected device layout. The flaw operates at the application layer where user-supplied input directly influences the output without appropriate security controls, creating a vector for persistent malicious code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it enables attackers to compromise user sessions, steal sensitive information, and potentially escalate privileges within the Kentico environment. Authorized users who access the device layout editing screens become potential targets for session hijacking attacks, where malicious JavaScript can capture cookies, credentials, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users. The vulnerability particularly affects administrators who maintain device layouts, as their elevated privileges make them prime targets for exploitation. According to the vendor's response acknowledging this as intended functionality for authorized users to edit ascx code layouts, the security implications may be more complex than typical XSS scenarios, but the potential for unauthorized code execution remains a significant concern.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7205 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding controls within the Kentico application. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in device layout management, undergo strict sanitization before being processed or displayed. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution, while regular security audits should verify that all administrative interfaces properly validate input parameters. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-79 which describes improper neutralization of input during web page generation, and aligns with ATT&CK techniques involving command and control through web application exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious parameter patterns in device layout requests to detect potential exploitation attempts.