CVE-2024-22160 in Image Tag Manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/31/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Bradley B. Dalina Image Tag Manager allows Reflected XSS.This issue affects Image Tag Manager: from n/a through 1.5.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2024
This vulnerability represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw that specifically targets the web page generation process within Bradley B. Dalina's Image Tag Manager plugin. The weakness occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into dynamically generated web pages, creating an environment where malicious scripts can be executed in the context of other users' browsers. This particular vulnerability is classified as a reflected XSS attack because the malicious payload is reflected off the web server and delivered to the victim's browser through a crafted request. The vulnerability exists in all versions of the Image Tag Manager plugin from the initial release through version 1.5, indicating a persistent flaw that has not been addressed in the software lifecycle.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and output encoding practices within the plugin's web page generation logic. When users interact with the plugin through web forms or URL parameters, the application processes this input without adequate sanitization measures. The flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code that gets executed when other users view the affected web page. This reflected nature means that the malicious script must be delivered via a specially crafted URL or form submission that the victim then clicks or visits, making it particularly dangerous in phishing scenarios or when users are tricked into interacting with malicious links. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in web applications. From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability creates significant risk for any website using the Image Tag Manager plugin, as it can be exploited to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect victims to malicious sites.
The operational impact of this reflected XSS vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to encompass potential data breaches and unauthorized access to user sessions. Attackers can exploit this flaw to hijack user sessions, steal sensitive information, or manipulate the functionality of the affected website. The vulnerability affects not just the plugin's own functionality but can potentially compromise the entire website if the attacker can leverage the XSS to access administrative features or user data. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the broader ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1566 technique for initial access through social engineering and T1059 for command and control through script injection. The reflected nature of the attack means that the vulnerability can be exploited through various vectors including email phishing campaigns, compromised advertisements, or malicious links shared through social media platforms. Organizations using this plugin should prioritize immediate remediation through patch updates or temporary mitigation measures such as input filtering and output encoding.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the web application. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-provided input before it is processed or displayed, ensuring that any potentially malicious content is neutralized or removed. Implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution even if the underlying vulnerability exists. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests that attempt to exploit XSS vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar input handling issues throughout the application. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project. Given that this vulnerability affects a widely used plugin, system administrators should ensure that all instances of the Image Tag Manager are updated to the latest version that addresses this specific XSS flaw. Additionally, user education about phishing attempts and suspicious links remains crucial in preventing exploitation of this vulnerability in real-world scenarios.