CVE-2020-4658 in Sterling File Gateway
Summary
by MITRE • 12/17/2020
IBM Sterling File Gateway 2.2.0.0 through 6.0.3.2 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: 186095.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2026
This cross-site scripting vulnerability in IBM Sterling File Gateway affects versions ranging from 2.2.0.0 through 6.0.3.2 and represents a critical security flaw that enables attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into the web user interface. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's web components, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the interface through crafted payloads. The flaw manifests when user-supplied data is directly rendered in web pages without proper sanitization, creating an environment where attacker-controlled scripts can execute within the context of authenticated sessions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through injection points in the web interface where user input is processed and displayed without adequate security controls. When a victim interacts with the affected system, the malicious JavaScript code becomes part of the page's execution context, potentially compromising the integrity of the application's functionality. The vulnerability specifically enables credential disclosure within trusted sessions, as the injected scripts can access session cookies, form data, and other sensitive information that the authenticated user has access to within the application's interface.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for organizations relying on IBM Sterling File Gateway for file transfer operations and document management. Attackers could leverage this flaw to steal authentication tokens, session identifiers, and potentially access sensitive data or system resources that are normally protected by proper authentication mechanisms. The attack vector typically involves tricking users into clicking malicious links or visiting compromised web pages that contain the exploit code, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently interact with web-based administrative interfaces.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in software applications, and maps to several techniques within the MITRE ATT&CK framework including T1566 for credential access through social engineering and T1071 for application layer protocols. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation controls, proper output encoding, and regular security updates to address this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes deploying web application firewalls, implementing content security policies, and ensuring all users are running patched versions of the software as provided by IBM security advisories. Additionally, administrative users should be educated about recognizing potentially malicious links and avoiding interaction with untrusted web content that could exploit this vulnerability in the context of their trusted sessions.