CVE-2019-4571 in Content Navigator
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Content Navigator 3.0CD is vulnerable to cross-site scripting. This vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI thus altering the intended functionality potentially leading to credentials disclosure within a trusted session. IBM X-Force ID: 166721.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2023
IBM Content Navigator version 3.0CD contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security weakness in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before rendering it in the web interface. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes user-supplied data in a manner that allows malicious JavaScript code to be injected and executed within the context of a victim's browser session.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to craft malicious payloads that can be embedded within the web user interface of IBM Content Navigator. When legitimate users interact with the application, their browsers execute the injected JavaScript code, which can manipulate the intended functionality of the application. This particular vulnerability is especially concerning because it operates within a trusted session context, meaning that the malicious code executes with the privileges and permissions of the authenticated user. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted input through web forms, URL parameters, or other user-controllable data entry points that are not adequately sanitized by the application's input validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates potential pathways for credential theft and session hijacking within the trusted environment. Attackers can leverage this weakness to steal session cookies, capture user credentials, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users without their knowledge. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive content management systems, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within network environments where IBM Content Navigator is deployed. The IBM X-Force ID 166721 confirms the severity and tracking of this specific vulnerability within the security community.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application's web interface. Security measures must include proper sanitization of all user inputs before rendering them in the browser, implementation of Content Security Policy headers, and regular security updates to patch known vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, conduct regular security assessments of the application, and establish proper user access controls. The remediation process involves updating to patched versions of IBM Content Navigator, implementing proper input validation routines, and ensuring that all user-supplied data undergoes strict sanitization before being processed or displayed in the web interface.