CVE-2023-37527 in BigFix Platform
Summary
by MITRE • 02/02/2024
A reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Web Reports component of HCL BigFix Platform can possibly allow an attacker to execute malicious javascript code in the application session or in database, via remote injection, while rendering content in a web page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-37527 represents a critical reflected cross-site scripting flaw within the Web Reports component of the HCL BigFix Platform. This security weakness exists in the platform's web-based reporting functionality where user input is not properly sanitized before being rendered in web pages. The vulnerability allows malicious actors to inject malicious javascript code that can execute within the context of a victim's browser session, potentially compromising the integrity of the application and the data it processes.
The technical nature of this flaw stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the Web Reports component. When the platform processes user-supplied parameters through web requests, it fails to adequately sanitize or escape special characters that could be interpreted as javascript code. This reflected nature means that the malicious payload is reflected back to the user through the web application's response, making it particularly dangerous as it can be delivered via crafted URLs or form submissions. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically affects the web interface components that generate reports and display data to authenticated users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can potentially allow attackers to access sensitive database information, manipulate user sessions, or escalate privileges within the platform. Attackers could leverage this flaw to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users, or even access confidential data stored within the BigFix platform. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system and can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-79 which defines Cross-Site Scripting as a weakness where untrusted data is sent to a web browser without proper validation or encoding.
The implications for organizations using HCL BigFix Platform are significant, as successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the reporting environment and potentially broader access to network resources. Attackers could use this vulnerability to establish persistent access points, conduct data exfiltration, or perform reconnaissance activities within the platform. The platform's role in security monitoring and management makes this particularly dangerous, as it could provide attackers with access to critical security information and operational data. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering tactics including spearphishing with links and malicious payloads delivered via web interfaces.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and output encoding controls, regular security updates from HCL, and network segmentation to limit the attack surface. The recommended approach involves deploying web application firewalls, implementing proper content security policies, and conducting thorough security testing of all web components. Additionally, organizations should review their access controls and implement principle of least privilege to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in the broader application ecosystem.