YouTube API Content-Security-Policy Bypass Scanner

YouTube API is widely used by developers and organizations to integrate YouTube features into their digital platforms. It allows users to perform various operations related to YouTube, such as fetching video data, uploading videos, and managing playlists. Developers use the API to build applications that enhance user engagement by providing video content interactively. Organizations embed YouTube players or integrate search functionality on their websites using the API. The API is crucial for content creators to manage their channels and video listings efficiently. Moreover, advertisers use the API to link their ads with relevant video content for better visibility and engagement.

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities occur when attackers inject malicious scripts into web applications, which are then executed in the user's browser. This type of vulnerability can be exploited to perform unauthorized actions, steal user information, or hijack user sessions. In the context of the YouTube API, XSS vulnerabilities could lead to unauthorized access to YouTube services or manipulation of video content. Attackers could exploit XSS to bypass Content-Security-Policy mechanisms intended to protect user sessions. The presence of inadequate validation or escaping of dynamic content can make applications vulnerable to such attacks.

The vulnerability specifically checks for the misconfiguration of Content-Security-Policy headers in applications using the YouTube API. It targets the 'Content-Security-Policy' and 'youtube.com' headers by injecting scripts that leverage the CSP bypass capabilities. The scanner performs an HTTP request to the target's base URL and analyzes the response headers for inadequate CSP configurations. It uses fuzzing techniques to replace query parts with test scripts encoded using URL encoding. If the 'youtube_api_csp_xss' condition evaluates to true, it confirms the bypass vulnerability.

If exploited, a Content-Security-Policy Bypass can lead to serious security consequences. Attackers could execute arbitrary scripts in the victim's browser without their consent, potentially leading to data theft or session hijacking. It may also result in unauthorized access to user accounts, manipulation of video content, or unauthorized advertisements. Malicious actors could use this vulnerability to perform phishing attacks or distribute malware. Users might experience data corruption or alteration without their knowledge, leading to loss of trust in the application.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/renniepak/CSPBypass/blob/main/data.tsv