CVE-2019-13239 in GLPI
Summary
by MITRE
inc/user.class.php in GLPI before 9.4.3 allows XSS via a user picture.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2019-13239 represents a cross-site scripting flaw discovered in the GLPI (Gestionnaire Libre de Parc Informatique) software platform, specifically within the user.class.php file. This issue affects versions prior to 9.4.3 and stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms when handling user profile pictures. The vulnerability occurs because the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied image data before rendering it in web pages, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code through image uploads.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves an attacker uploading a malicious image file that contains embedded javascript payloads or leveraging existing image files with malicious metadata. When the system displays user profile pictures, the improperly sanitized image data gets rendered in the browser context, allowing the injected scripts to execute within the victim's browser session. This flaw falls under CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting vulnerabilities as a result of insufficient input validation and output encoding. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic failure in the principle of least privilege and input sanitization, where user-controllable data is directly incorporated into web page content without proper security measures.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-13239 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive user credentials, or manipulate the application interface to deceive users. In a typical GLPI deployment environment, this vulnerability could allow unauthorized access to inventory management systems, user authentication data, and potentially escalate to broader system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that GLPI is widely used for IT asset management and help desk operations, making it a valuable target for adversaries seeking persistent access to organizational infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting and T1566 for credential access through social engineering, as attackers could craft malicious profile pictures to deliver payloads.
Organizations utilizing GLPI versions prior to 9.4.3 should immediately implement mitigations including applying the official patch released by the GLPI development team, implementing strict file type validation for user uploads, and configuring proper content security policies to prevent script execution. Additional defensive measures should include monitoring user profile picture uploads for suspicious patterns and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payload delivery. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security audits and input validation across all user-controllable data points within web applications, particularly those handling user-generated content. System administrators should also consider implementing automated scanning tools to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within their environment, as this type of flaw commonly occurs in applications that process user uploads without proper sanitization protocols.