CVE-2024-42852 Scanner

AcuToWeb is a server application used by organizations to enable web-based access to legacy applications. Developed by OpenText, it facilitates the interaction between users and applications through web browsers, providing a seamless experience without the need for traditional client-based installations. AcuToWeb is typically deployed in corporate environments where there's a need to modernize legacy systems for web access. This software is popular in industries such as finance, insurance, and government sectors due to its ability to easily convert character-based applications to graphical web applications. Its versatile architecture supports both internal and external user access, making it a critical component in organizations aiming to enhance accessibility and productivity. AcuToWeb's core function is to ensure smooth and secure web-based operations of older applications across various network scenarios.

The vulnerability detected in AcuToWeb relates to cross-site scripting (XSS), a prevalent type of security flaw in web applications. This XSS vulnerability arises when unsanitized user inputs are reflected in the web application's response, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts. The specific vulnerability in AcuToWeb is due to inadequate validation of input through the portgw parameter. This could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary JavaScript in a victim's browser without their knowledge. Successful exploitation could enable the attacker to access session tokens, cookies, or perform actions on behalf of the user. It is particularly concerning due to its network-level accessibility, magnifying the potential reach of the exploit.

The technical details of the vulnerability involve improper input sanitation of the portgw parameter in AcuToWeb's processing. When a specially crafted request containing JavaScript is sent to the vulnerable parameter, the application reflects the input back to the user's browser. The lack of proper input validation and output encoding enables the execution of JavaScript. The vulnerable endpoint responds with a status code of 200 and a content-type of text/html, confirming the presence of the script.

This flaw is exacerbated by the use of predictable input space, allowing a malicious actor to craft a payload that triggers JavaScript execution.

Exploiting this XSS vulnerability can lead to numerous potential impacts. Immediate effects include the execution of arbitrary JavaScript in victims' web browsers. This could facilitate session hijacking, allowing attackers to assume user identities and perform unauthorized actions. Additionally, it could lead to the theft of user credentials, sensitive data exposure, and even the distribution of malware through script execution. The impact extends to compromising user trust and damaging organizational reputation due to possible data breaches and unauthorized access incidents.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/Hebing123/cve/issues/64
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-42852