CVE-2021-21302 in PrestaShop
Summary
by MITRE • 02/27/2021
PrestaShop is a fully scalable open source e-commerce solution. In PrestaShop before version 1.7.2 there is a CSV Injection vulnerability possible by using shop search keywords via the admin panel. The problem is fixed in 1.7.7.2
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2021
The CVE-2021-21302 vulnerability represents a critical CSV injection flaw within the PrestaShop e-commerce platform that affects versions prior to 1.7.7.2. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the admin panel's shop search functionality, where malicious actors can exploit the system by crafting specially formatted search keywords that, when exported to CSV format, execute unintended commands. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms within the platform's data export processes, particularly when handling user-supplied search terms that may contain malicious payloads. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-1237 which specifically addresses CSV injection in web applications, making it a direct threat to data integrity and system security within e-commerce environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate search keywords in a manner that when these keywords are processed through the admin panel's export functionality, they can inject malicious formulas or commands into the generated CSV files. This typically occurs when the platform fails to properly escape or sanitize special characters that have significance in spreadsheet applications, particularly the equals sign, plus, minus, and at symbols that can trigger formula execution when imported into applications like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through the administrative interface, meaning that an attacker who gains access to an admin account or can perform actions that lead to CSV generation can potentially execute arbitrary commands on systems where the exported files are opened.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption or unauthorized access, as it can potentially enable more sophisticated attacks including remote code execution, privilege escalation, and data exfiltration. When administrators or users open malicious CSV files generated through this vulnerability, they may inadvertently execute malicious code on their systems, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning in e-commerce environments where administrators frequently export data for reporting, inventory management, and customer analysis, making the exploitation surface quite broad. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as the injected formulas can execute system commands when the CSV files are opened in spreadsheet applications.
Organizations using affected PrestaShop versions should immediately implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including upgrading to version 1.7.7.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the CSV injection vulnerability. Additional protective measures should include implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied data within the admin panel, particularly for search and export functionality. Network segmentation and privileged access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual export activities and suspicious search patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in web applications, particularly around data export functionality, and aligns with OWASP Top Ten categories related to injection flaws and insecure data handling, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application lifecycle.