iE Based

Cross-Site Scripting (Internet Explorer Only)

Overview of the Vulnerability

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of injection attack where malicious JavaScript is injected into a website. When a user visits the affected web page, the Javascript executes within that user’s browser in the context of the domain. This instance of XSS can be found on the domain which allows an attacker to control code that is executed within a user’s Internet Explorer browser. From here, an attacker could carry out any actions that the user is able to perform, including accessing any of the user's data and modifying information within the user’s permissions.

Business Impact

XSS could result in reputational damage for the business through the impact to customers’ trust.

Steps to Reproduce

  1. Enable a HTTP interception proxy, such as Burp Suite or OWASP ZAP

  2. Use an Internet Explorer browser to navigate to: {{URL}}

  3. Forward the following request to the endpoint:

{{request}}
  1. Log into an account and navigate to URL which contains the payload

  2. Observe the JavaScript payload being executed

Proof of Concept (PoC)

The following screenshot(s) demonstrate(s) this vulnerability:

{{screenshot}}

Recommendation(s)

There is no single technique to stop XSS from occurring. However, implementing the right combination of defensive measures within the application will prevent and limit the impact of XSS. Some best practices include the following:

  • All user input fields should be sanitized based on what the field is likely to contain. For example, a date field (01/01/2001) should only contain a maximum of 10 characters consisting of numbers and forward slashes. Additionally, drop down or pick lists can be used for allowable inputs to ensure expected values are sent to the server.

  • Use appropriate HTTP response headers to ensure the browser correctly interprets responses. These should be customized specific to the application and its environment. For example:

For more information, please see the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) guides located at:

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