CVE-2019-16684 in Xoops
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in the image-manager in Xoops 2.5.10. When any image with a JavaScript payload as its name is hovered over in the list or in the Edit page, the payload executes.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16684 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the image-manager component of Xoops version 2.5.10. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data when processing image file names. The vulnerability specifically manifests when JavaScript code is embedded within image file names, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited through simple user interaction patterns.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a hover event trigger mechanism that is commonly used in web interfaces for displaying image previews or metadata. When an attacker uploads an image with a malicious JavaScript payload embedded in the filename, the system fails to properly escape or encode this content before rendering it in the user interface. The flaw operates at the presentation layer where image names are displayed in lists and edit pages, making the execution context particularly dangerous as it requires no special privileges or authentication to exploit. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting conditions where untrusted data is incorporated into web pages without proper validation or encoding.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, creating potential for more sophisticated attacks including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code within the context of the victim's browser, potentially compromising user sessions and accessing sensitive data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction to exploit, as simply hovering over the maliciously named image triggers the payload execution. This makes it an attractive vector for social engineering campaigns and automated exploitation attempts.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which describes the use of web browsers for malicious purposes including the execution of JavaScript payloads. The flaw demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and inadequate security controls at the application layer, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing including dynamic analysis of user interface components. Organizations using Xoops 2.5.10 should immediately implement mitigations including proper input validation, output encoding, and the implementation of Content Security Policy headers to prevent unauthorized script execution. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and the necessity of validating all user-supplied content before rendering it in web interfaces, particularly in components that handle file uploads and display user-generated content.