CVE-2019-17223 in ERP
Summary
by MITRE
There is HTML Injection in the Note field in Dolibarr ERP/CRM 10.0.2 via user/note.php.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2019-17223 represents an HTML injection flaw discovered in Dolibarr ERP/CRM version 10.0.2, specifically within the user/note.php component. This issue arises from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data entered into the note field functionality. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities, making it a critical concern for web application security. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary HTML code into the note field, which can then be executed in the context of other users' browsers when they view the affected content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when users input HTML code or JavaScript payloads into the note field through the user/note.php interface. The application fails to properly escape or filter special HTML characters such as angle brackets, quotes, and script tags before rendering the content in web pages. This inadequate sanitization process creates an environment where attackers can embed malicious scripts that execute in the browser context of other users who view the compromised notes. The vulnerability specifically affects the note management functionality within the Dolibarr ERP/CRM system, which is commonly used for storing user-related information, project notes, and business communications.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-17223 extends beyond simple data corruption or display issues, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious websites. When exploited, this vulnerability allows threat actors to inject persistent scripts that can capture user sessions, redirect victims to phishing sites, or even execute arbitrary commands on affected systems. The risk is particularly elevated in enterprise environments where Dolibarr is used for business-critical operations, as compromised notes may contain sensitive business information, financial data, or confidential communications. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including social engineering, where attackers convince users to view malicious notes, or through automated scanning tools that identify the vulnerable endpoint.
Organizations using Dolibarr ERP/CRM version 10.0.2 should immediately implement mitigations including input validation and output encoding measures to prevent HTML injection attacks. The recommended approach involves implementing proper HTML escaping mechanisms, utilizing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers, and applying the latest security patches from Dolibarr's official releases. Security professionals should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads targeting this vulnerability. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.006 for Scripting and T1566 for Phishing, indicating the potential for automated exploitation and social engineering attacks. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments to identify similar injection vulnerabilities in other components of their ERP/CRM systems, as the underlying issue reflects poor input validation practices that may exist elsewhere in the application codebase. The vulnerability underscores the importance of implementing defense-in-depth strategies and maintaining up-to-date security measures to protect against evolving threats targeting enterprise business applications.