CVE-2024-51704 in imPress Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation (XSS or 'Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Hanusek imPress allows Reflected XSS.This issue affects imPress: from n/a through 0.1.4.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-51704 represents a critical security flaw in the Hanusek imPress web application that enables reflected cross-site scripting attacks. This issue stems from improper input sanitization during web page generation processes, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions of imPress ranging from the initial release through version 0.1.4, indicating a persistent flaw that has not yet been addressed in the software's current iteration. The reflected nature of this XSS vulnerability means that malicious payloads are executed in response to crafted requests rather than being stored on the server, making the attack vector more immediate and targeted.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly neutralize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamically generated web content. This improper input handling creates a condition where malicious scripts can be embedded within HTTP request parameters and subsequently executed in the victim's browser context. The flaw aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation and output encoding can compromise web application security. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs containing script payloads that, when clicked by unsuspecting users, execute in their browser sessions and potentially steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions, or redirect users to malicious sites.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as reflected XSS attacks can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, and unauthorized data manipulation within the affected web application. Users interacting with the imPress application may unknowingly execute malicious code that can persist in their browser sessions, potentially enabling attackers to impersonate legitimate users and access sensitive functionality. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can compromise the integrity of the web application's user interface, potentially allowing attackers to modify displayed content or redirect users to phishing sites. The reflected nature of the attack means that the malicious payload must be delivered through external means such as email links, chat messages, or compromised websites, making it particularly dangerous in social engineering campaigns.
Organizations utilizing the affected imPress versions should immediately implement mitigations to protect their users from potential exploitation. The primary remediation strategy involves implementing comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before incorporating it into web page content. This approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which focuses on exploitation of web application vulnerabilities through input validation flaws. Additionally, developers should implement Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution and establish proper input sanitization routines that prevent malicious payloads from being processed. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to web application security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Given that this vulnerability affects a relatively early version of the software, upgrading to a patched version or implementing proper input sanitization measures should be prioritized to maintain application security posture.