CVE-2024-41959 in mailcow-dockerized
Summary
by MITRE • 08/05/2024
mailcow: dockerized is an open source groupware/email suite based on docker. An unauthenticated attacker can inject a JavaScript payload into the API logs. This payload is executed whenever the API logs page is viewed, potentially allowing an attacker to run malicious scripts in the context of the user's browser. This could lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, or further exploitation of the affected system. This issue has been addressed in the `2024-07` release. All users are advised to upgrade. There are no known workarounds for this vulnerability.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-41959 affects mailcow dockerized, an open source groupware and email suite deployed through docker containers. This application serves as a comprehensive email infrastructure solution that includes mail servers, web interfaces, and administrative panels. The vulnerability manifests as a cross-site scripting flaw that allows unauthenticated attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into API logs. The attack vector specifically targets the API logs viewing functionality, which represents a critical operational component of the mailcow administrative interface. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 - Cross-site Scripting, which is classified as a fundamental web application security weakness that enables attackers to execute scripts in the context of a victim's browser session. The vulnerability exists because the application fails to properly sanitize or escape user input before displaying it in the API logs interface, creating an environment where malicious payloads can persist and execute.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it provides attackers with a persistent mechanism for conducting further exploitation. When administrators or authorized users view the API logs page, the injected JavaScript payload executes within their browser context, potentially enabling session hijacking, data exfiltration, or privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that API logs are typically accessed by system administrators who possess elevated privileges within the mailcow environment. This creates a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive email infrastructure components, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the mailcow installation. The vulnerability's persistence in the logs means that once injected, the malicious code continues to execute every time the logs are viewed, creating a continuous threat vector that remains active until the logs are cleared or the application is upgraded.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a significant risk to email infrastructure deployments that utilize mailcow dockerized. The attack chain typically involves an attacker identifying the API logs endpoint, crafting a malicious JavaScript payload, and injecting it through API requests that are subsequently logged. The absence of known workarounds means that organizations must rely entirely on upgrading to the patched version to mitigate the threat. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1566 - Phishing and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables both initial access through script injection and execution of malicious code within the victim's browser environment. Organizations should implement immediate remediation measures by upgrading to the 2024-07 release, which contains the necessary patches to address the input sanitization deficiencies. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper output encoding and input validation in web applications, particularly in administrative interfaces where privileged access exists. Regular security assessments should include verification of proper sanitization of log data and other user-generated content to prevent similar cross-site scripting vulnerabilities from persisting in email infrastructure deployments.