CVE-2020-15178 in contactform module
Summary
by MITRE
In PrestaShop contactform module (prestashop/contactform) before version 4.3.0, an attacker is able to inject JavaScript while using the contact form. The `message` field was incorrectly unescaped, possibly allowing attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in a victim's browser.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-15178 affects the PrestaShop contactform module, specifically targeting versions prior to 4.3.0. This represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that exploits improper input sanitization within the module's contact form functionality. The flaw exists in how the module processes user input, particularly in the message field where JavaScript code injection becomes possible. The vulnerability stems from insufficient output escaping mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-provided content before rendering it within the web application interface. This creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited across multiple user sessions and browser environments, making it particularly concerning for e-commerce platforms that rely heavily on user interaction.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The attack vector occurs when an attacker submits malicious JavaScript code within the contact form's message field, and this code is subsequently rendered without proper sanitization. The unescaped output allows the injected JavaScript to execute within the browser context of any user who views the affected contact form submission. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script injection, specifically targeting the command and control channel through user-facing web interfaces. The flaw demonstrates inadequate input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to preventing XSS attacks in modern web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. When exploited, the JavaScript injection can access sensitive user data, manipulate the DOM to alter page content, and potentially establish persistent backdoors through the compromised contact form interface. The vulnerability affects all users who interact with the contact form functionality, creating a broad attack surface that can be leveraged by threat actors to compromise user sessions and data integrity. The persistence of this vulnerability across multiple user sessions makes it particularly dangerous for online stores where customers frequently submit inquiries and support requests through the contact form interface. The security implications are compounded by the fact that the vulnerability exists in a module that is commonly used and trusted by users, making detection and mitigation more challenging.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-15178 should prioritize immediate patching to version 4.3.0 or later of the PrestaShop contactform module, which addresses the improper escaping mechanism. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding procedures to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other modules and custom code implementations. The remediation process should include thorough code reviews focusing on all user input handling and output rendering mechanisms, particularly those involving HTML content generation. Security teams should also consider implementing content security policies to add an additional layer of protection against JavaScript injection attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits of web applications should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues across the entire platform ecosystem. The implementation of proper web application firewalls and input sanitization frameworks can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts while ensuring that user interactions remain secure and trusted within the PrestaShop environment.