CVE-2021-29009 in Seo Panel
Summary
by MITRE • 03/26/2021
A cross-site scripting (XSS) issue in SEO Panel 4.8.0 allows remote attackers to inject JavaScript via archive.php in the "type" parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-29009 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within SEO Panel version 4.8.0 that exposes the application to remote code execution risks through web-based attack vectors. This issue specifically targets the archive.php script where user input validation is insufficient, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code through the "type" parameter. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws according to the CWE database maintained by the MITRE Corporation. The flaw enables attackers to bypass standard security mechanisms and execute malicious scripts in the context of victim browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or further exploitation of the compromised systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing JavaScript code within the "type" parameter of the archive.php endpoint. When a victim navigates to this specially crafted URL, the application fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before rendering it in the web page context. This failure in input validation creates an opening for attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the victim's browser session. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a core administrative component of the SEO Panel application, potentially allowing unauthorized users to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to sensitive administrative functions. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for Scripting and T1566.001 for Spearphishing Attachment, as it enables attackers to deliver malicious payloads through web interfaces.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-29009 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can lead to comprehensive system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can establish persistent access to the affected system, potentially gaining access to sensitive SEO data, user credentials, or administrative controls. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on SEO Panel for their search engine optimization activities, making it particularly dangerous for digital marketing agencies or businesses that depend heavily on their search rankings and online presence. The flaw's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns. Organizations using the affected version should immediately assess their exposure and implement appropriate mitigations to prevent potential compromise of their web applications and associated data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-29009 should include immediate patching of the SEO Panel application to version 4.8.1 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input sanitization measures at the application level, including proper escaping of user-supplied data before rendering in web contexts. Web Application Firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering malicious payloads before they reach the vulnerable application components. Regular security assessments and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of defense against XSS attacks by restricting the sources from which scripts can be loaded. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts and potential exploitation of this vulnerability.