CVE-2024-24156 in Gnuboard
Summary
by MITRE • 03/16/2024
Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Gnuboard g6 before Github commit 58c737a263ac0c523592fd87ff71b9e3c07d7cf5, allows remote attackers execute arbitrary code via the wr_content parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/15/2025
The CVE-2024-24156 vulnerability represents a critical cross site scripting flaw in Gnuboard g6 software prior to a specific GitHub commit reference. This vulnerability exists within the web application's input handling mechanisms and specifically targets the wr_content parameter which is used for content management within the forum system. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, creating a persistent threat vector that can compromise user sessions and execute unauthorized actions on behalf of victims.
The technical implementation of this XSS vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and output encoding within the Gnuboard g6 application framework. When user-supplied content is processed through the wr_content parameter without proper validation and sanitization, malicious payloads can be stored and subsequently executed in the context of other users' browsers. This flaw operates under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities in software applications. The vulnerability's exploitation pathway follows standard XSS attack patterns where attackers craft malicious script payloads that get stored in the application's database and executed when legitimate users access affected pages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive user data, session hijacking capabilities, and the ability to perform actions within the application as authenticated users. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to steal cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, deface the forum content, or even escalate privileges within the application. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or network, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for widely used forum platforms. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers phishing and social engineering attacks that leverage web-based exploits to gain initial access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent malicious script injection. The application should sanitize all user inputs, particularly those passed through the wr_content parameter, by removing or encoding potentially dangerous characters and script tags. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be implemented to ensure that the application remains protected against known vulnerabilities. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection against XSS attacks by restricting script execution within the browser. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security testing to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited in real-world scenarios.