Source: cve@mitre.org
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in the administrative web interface in Cerberus FTP Server before 5.0.6.0 allow (1) remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a log entry that is not properly handled within the Log Manager component, and might allow (2) remote authenticated administrators to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a Messages field to the servermanager program.
Cerberus FTP Server versions prior to 5.0.6.0 are vulnerable to multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. These vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious scripts into the administrative web interface, potentially leading to account compromise and system takeover through session hijacking or other client-side attacks.
The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding within the Cerberus FTP Server's administrative web interface. Specifically, the Log Manager component fails to properly sanitize log entries before displaying them, allowing for the injection of malicious HTML or JavaScript. Additionally, the Messages field in the servermanager program lacks proper sanitization, enabling authenticated administrators to inject XSS payloads. The root cause is a failure to implement output encoding (e.g., HTML entity encoding) when displaying user-supplied data within the web interface, allowing attackers to manipulate the rendered HTML and execute arbitrary JavaScript. This is a classic example of a reflected XSS vulnerability in the Log Manager and a stored XSS vulnerability in the Messages field.
There is no specific APT or malware directly linked to this vulnerability. However, XSS vulnerabilities are commonly used by various threat actors for initial access and privilege escalation. This vulnerability could be exploited by any threat actor with the necessary skills and motivation. Not listed on CISA KEV.
Monitor web server logs for unusual HTTP requests containing suspicious JavaScript code or HTML tags (e.g., <script>, <iframe>).
Analyze network traffic for XSS payloads, such as JavaScript code injected into HTTP responses.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to detect and block XSS attempts.
Monitor the Cerberus FTP Server logs for suspicious activity, such as unusual log entries or attempts to modify server settings.
Upgrade to Cerberus FTP Server version 5.0.6.0 or later.
Implement proper input validation and output encoding (e.g., HTML entity encoding) for all user-supplied data displayed in the web interface.
Use a Content Security Policy (CSP) to mitigate the impact of XSS attacks.
Regularly scan the server for vulnerabilities and apply security patches promptly.
Review and harden the server's configuration to minimize the attack surface.