CVE-2021-20484 in Sterling File Gateway
Summary
by MITRE • 09/24/2021
IBM Sterling File Gateway 2.2.0.0 through 6.1.0.3 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: 197666.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2021
IBM Sterling File Gateway versions 2.2.0.0 through 6.1.0.3 contain a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security weakness in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input before rendering it within the web interface, allowing malicious actors to inject JavaScript code that executes in the context of authenticated user sessions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to craft malicious payloads that can be executed when legitimate users view affected pages. When users interact with the Sterling File Gateway web UI, any unsanitized input parameters or data fields can be manipulated to inject malicious scripts. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can establish a foothold within trusted sessions and potentially escalate privileges through credential theft or session hijacking techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it specifically targets the web interface components that handle user authentication and session management. Attackers can leverage this weakness to steal session cookies, credentials, or other sensitive information from authenticated users. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the trusted session context, meaning that compromised users would appear legitimate to the system, making detection more difficult. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering attacks through malicious content delivery.
Organizations using affected versions of IBM Sterling File Gateway face significant risk exposure as this vulnerability can be exploited without requiring elevated privileges or specialized knowledge. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability affects the web UI components that are frequently accessed by users. IBM has addressed this issue through patch releases, and organizations should immediately upgrade to versions that contain the necessary security fixes. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, output encoding, and content security policies can help mitigate the risk until full patch deployment occurs. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security controls and proper web application security practices in enterprise file transfer solutions.