CVE-2018-7834 in TSXETG100
Summary
by MITRE
A CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability exists in all versions of the TSXETG100 allowing an attacker to send a specially crafted URL with an embedded script to a user that would then be executed within the context of that user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2023
The CVE-2018-7834 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw classified under CWE-79 within the TSXETG100 device firmware. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web interface of the device, creating an exploitable condition where malicious scripts can be injected and executed in the context of authenticated users. The affected device operates as a network appliance that provides web-based management interfaces, making it susceptible to exploitation through crafted web requests that bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability specifically impacts all versions of the TSXETG100 firmware, indicating a systemic issue within the device's security architecture rather than a single point of failure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the device's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters before rendering them within web responses. When a user accesses a specially crafted URL containing malicious script code, the device processes this input without adequate validation or encoding, allowing the script to execute within the victim's browser session. This occurs because the web interface fails to implement proper output encoding mechanisms that would neutralize potentially dangerous characters and sequences. The vulnerability can be leveraged through various attack vectors including phishing emails, compromised websites, or social engineering tactics that direct users to malicious URLs. The execution context is particularly dangerous as it operates within the privileges of authenticated users, potentially allowing attackers to escalate their access and perform actions with elevated permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the network environment. An attacker could potentially steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting web-based scripting environments. The risk is compounded by the fact that the TSXETG100 device likely serves as a network gateway or security appliance, making successful exploitation potentially catastrophic for network security. The vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. Organizations relying on this device for network security may face significant exposure if the vulnerability is not addressed promptly.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7834 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the vendor, as this represents a known vulnerability requiring patch management. Security teams should implement network monitoring to detect suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual URL parameters or script execution patterns. Input validation should be strengthened at multiple layers including web application firewalls, proxy servers, and device-level controls to prevent malicious payloads from reaching the vulnerable interface. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers and proper output encoding mechanisms can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their network infrastructure to identify other devices that may be running similar firmware versions, as the vulnerability likely affects other devices within the same product line. Regular security testing including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar weaknesses in the network security posture, with particular attention to web application security controls that align with OWASP Top Ten categories including injection flaws and cross-site scripting vulnerabilities.