CVE-2019-18914 in Printer
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2021
A potential security vulnerability has been identified for certain HP printers and MFPs that would allow redirection page Cross-Site Scripting in a client’s browser by clicking on a third-party malicious link.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2021
This vulnerability affects specific HP printer and multifunction device models that implement web-based management interfaces. The security flaw manifests as a cross-site scripting vulnerability in the printer's redirection page functionality, which occurs when users click on malicious links hosted by third-party domains. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding within the printer's web interface components, particularly in how the device handles URL redirection parameters. When a user clicks on a crafted malicious link, the printer's web server fails to properly sanitize the input before processing it as part of the redirection mechanism, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious scripts into the browser context of the victim.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the printer's web interface failing to properly validate or escape user-controllable parameters that are used in URL redirection operations. This allows an attacker to construct a malicious URL that, when clicked by an authenticated user, would execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the victim's browser session. The flaw exists in the printer's handling of redirect_uri parameters or similar redirection mechanisms that are commonly used in web applications. According to CWE standards, this represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79, which describes improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the network level where users interact with printer web interfaces, making it accessible to attackers who can manipulate network traffic or deliver malicious payloads through social engineering.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can enable more sophisticated attacks such as session hijacking, credential theft, or data exfiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially gain access to the printer's administrative interface, modify printer settings, or capture sensitive information transmitted through the device. The attack surface is particularly broad since many organizations rely on web-based printer management interfaces for configuration and monitoring purposes. The vulnerability is especially dangerous in enterprise environments where users may have elevated privileges when accessing printer management interfaces, potentially allowing attackers to escalate their privileges or access restricted printer functions. From an attack chain perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically web shell execution, and T1566 for spearphishing with a malicious attachment, as the initial vector often involves phishing emails containing malicious links.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation of printer devices, disabling unnecessary web interfaces, and implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious traffic. Regular firmware updates from HP should be deployed to address the vulnerability, with particular attention to the specific printer models affected by CVE-2019-18914. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious redirection patterns or attempts to access printer management interfaces from unauthorized sources. User education programs should emphasize the dangers of clicking unknown links, especially in email communications or untrusted web sources. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and authentication mechanisms for printer interfaces, along with regular security assessments of networked devices, will help reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of securing all network endpoints including peripheral devices that may not receive the same level of security attention as core computing systems, reinforcing the principle of defense in depth in cybersecurity practices.