Scripts in eBay Postings May Enable Phishing Attacks

Systems Affected

The eBay web site may contain pages that affect various web browsers.

Overview

A vulnerability in the eBay web site may allow an attacker to steal personal information from eBay customers.

Solution

Verify the legitimacy of eBay web pages

Attackers may use the vulnerability to perform a phishing attack. Make sure that the URL is accurate, and check the web site certificate to make sure that you are visiting an authentic eBay web page.

Description

eBay allows users to incorporate a type of code, also known as scripting, into the auction descriptions on its web site. An attacker can use this code to modify pages on eBay's web site or redirect you to a malicious web page. These may appear to be legitimate eBay web pages that request personal information. Using these techniques, an attacker may be able to collect your passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal information.

Please see US-CERT Vulnerability note VU#808921 for details and additional workarounds.

References

• US-CERT Vulnerability Note VU#808921 - <http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/808921>
• Securing Your Web Browser - <http://www.us-cert.gov/reading_room/securing_browser/>
• Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks - <http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-014.html>
• Understanding Web Site Certificates - <http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST05-010.html>
• eBay's Spoof Email Tutorial - <http://pages.ebay.com/education/spooftutorial/spoof_3.html>
• eBay Security Center - <http://pages.ebay.com/securitycenter>

Feedback can be directed to the US-CERT Technical Staff.

Produced 2006 by US-CERT, a government organization. Terms of use

Revision History

April 27, 2006: Initial release