Name: Chameleon - Out of Band Template Injection Scanner

Chameleon is a testing tool used by developers and security professionals to identify vulnerabilities in web applications. It checks for the presence of server-side template injections, which are often found in web frameworks that render templates on the server. By doing so, it helps to ensure that web applications are robust and secure, thereby preventing potential exploitation by malicious actors. Chameleon is utilized in scenarios where comprehensive security testing is crucial, such as during code reviews and security audits. The tool's ability to detect template injection vulnerabilities makes it essential for maintaining secure web applications. It complements other security measures by pinpointing specific weaknesses related to template rendering.

Server Side Template Injection (SSTI) is a critical vulnerability that can occur when user input is dynamically concatenated into a template engine directive and executed, leading to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability can enable an attacker to fully compromise the affected server, as it allows for the execution of arbitrary commands by injecting malicious templates. The detection of SSTI is crucial because it often provides a gateway to further exploit opportunities, including remote code execution and data exfiltration. SSTI vulnerabilities are commonly found in web applications that use template engines like Jinja2 or Velocity. By identifying this vulnerability, the scanner prevents potential attacks that could have severe consequences for affected systems. Regular detection and mitigation of SSTI are vital to ensure web application security.

The Chameleon scanner specifically targets server-side template injection vulnerabilities by sending crafted payloads to potentially vulnerable endpoints. It operates by injecting template expressions into HTTP queries to see if the server evaluates them, which would indicate a vulnerability. The scanner checks how the server responds to these injections, looking for execution of operating system commands. The Chameleon tool often uses DNS resolutions (like nslookup) via out-of-band interactions to confirm the vulnerability. It looks for markers in the query and checks if these commands are executed on the server. Such detailed checks help identify if an application is improperly handling templates, leading to security risks.

If exploited, Server Side Template Injection can have severe consequences, such as unauthorized access to sensitive data, complete server compromise, or lateral movement through a network. An attacker might gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands, leading to data breaches or manipulation. Additionally, this vulnerability might serve as an entry point for further attacks, extending even to client-side environments or adjacent systems. It could result in financial loss, reputational damage, and legal liabilities for organizations. Ensuring that template engines are resistant to these types of injections is essential in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of web applications.

REFERENCES

• https://chameleon.readthedocs.io/en/latest/
• https://medium.com/@0xAwali/template-engines-injection-101-4f2fe59e5756