CVE-2022-40879 in kkFileView
Summary
by MITRE • 09/29/2022
kkFileView v4.1.0 is vulnerable to Cross Site Scripting (XSS) via the parameter 'errorMsg.'
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2022
The kkFileView application version 4.1.0 presents a critical cross site scripting vulnerability that stems from inadequate input validation within the errorMsg parameter handling mechanism. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category, which specifically addresses cross site scripting flaws in web applications. The flaw occurs when user-supplied data containing malicious script code is accepted through the errorMsg parameter and subsequently rendered without proper sanitization or encoding mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious javascript code into the errorMsg parameter during file viewing operations or error handling scenarios. The vulnerability exists because the application fails to implement proper output encoding or input validation controls that would prevent malicious scripts from executing in the context of other users' browsers.
The operational impact of this XSS vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, deface web interfaces, steal sensitive user information, or redirect victims to malicious domains. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary javascript code in the victim's browser context, potentially compromising user sessions and accessing sensitive data. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that kkFileView is designed as a file viewing application that may handle various file types and user interactions, creating multiple potential entry points for malicious input. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access through malicious file handling, making it a significant threat vector for both initial compromise and lateral movement within affected environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application's data flow. The primary defense involves sanitizing all user inputs, particularly the errorMsg parameter, through proper HTML encoding or escaping before rendering any content. Implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution, while input validation should enforce strict parameter type checking and length limitations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads targeting this specific vulnerability. Regular security testing including dynamic application security testing and manual penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parameters or components. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352 which addresses cross site request forgery, and CWE-74 which covers injection flaws, making comprehensive input validation essential for preventing exploitation. System administrators should also implement proper monitoring and logging to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain updated security patches for the kkFileView application to prevent unauthorized access and data compromise.