CVE-2022-0475 in OTRS
Summary
by MITRE • 03/21/2022
Malicious translator is able to inject JavaScript code in few translatable strings (where HTML is allowed). The code could be executed in the Package manager. This issue affects: OTRS AG OTRS 7.0.x version: 7.0.32 and prior versions, 8.0.x version: 8.0.19 and prior versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0475 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the OTRS (Open Ticket Request System) platform that enables malicious actors to inject JavaScript code into translatable strings where HTML rendering is permitted. This security weakness specifically targets the package manager component of OTRS, creating a potential attack vector that could allow unauthorized code execution in the context of the application's user session. The vulnerability affects multiple versions including OTRS 7.0.32 and earlier releases, as well as OTRS 8.0.19 and prior versions, indicating this flaw has persisted across major releases and represents a significant security concern for organizations relying on these systems for ticket management and customer service operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the translation string handling functionality of OTRS. When administrators or users interact with translatable strings that permit HTML content, the system fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied input before rendering it within the package manager interface. This creates an environment where malicious JavaScript code can be embedded within translation strings and subsequently executed when the translated content is displayed to users. The flaw operates under the principle of cross-site scripting where the injected code executes in the context of the victim's browser session, potentially allowing attackers to perform actions on behalf of legitimate users with their privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-0475 extends beyond simple code injection, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, or manipulate the package management functionality of OTRS systems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially install malicious packages, modify existing package configurations, or gain unauthorized access to system resources that are normally protected. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 (Cross-site Scripting) and follows patterns commonly associated with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript) where adversaries leverage client-side scripting vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that OTRS systems are often deployed in enterprise environments where they handle sensitive customer information, internal communications, and business-critical ticketing processes.
Organizations utilizing affected OTRS versions should prioritize immediate remediation through official security patches provided by OTRS AG, as the vulnerability creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation and data compromise. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with XSS detection capabilities, enforcing strict input validation policies for translation strings, and conducting regular security audits of custom translation files can serve as interim protective measures. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper output encoding in web applications and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of internationalization features. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while maintaining detailed monitoring of package manager activities to detect any unauthorized modifications or installations that might result from this vulnerability.