CVE-2017-1000144 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Mahara versions 1.9 to 1.9.6, 1.10 to 1.10.4, and 15.04 to 15.04.1 that allows admins to insert malicious HTML and Javascript into the display name of an institution, potentially impacting user security.

Understanding CVE-2017-1000144

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Mahara versions that could lead to the execution of unauthorized code within the system.

What is CVE-2017-1000144?

The vulnerability in Mahara versions 1.9 to 1.9.6, 1.10 to 1.10.4, and 15.04 to 15.04.1 permits site admins or institution admins to insert unescaped HTML and Javascript into an institution's display name, which is then displayed to other users on specific Mahara system pages.

The Impact of CVE-2017-1000144

The injected malicious content could potentially compromise user data, breach privacy, and lead to unauthorized access within the Mahara system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-1000144

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows admins to insert HTML and Javascript into an institution's display name, which is displayed to other users without proper escaping on certain Mahara system pages.

Affected Systems and Versions

Mahara versions 1.9 to 1.9.6
Mahara versions 1.10 to 1.10.4
Mahara versions 15.04 to 15.04.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability enables site admins or institution admins to insert malicious code into the display name of an institution, which is then displayed to other users without proper escaping on specific Mahara system pages.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Mahara to the latest patched version.
Implement input validation to prevent malicious code injection.
Educate users on safe practices to avoid falling victim to potential exploits.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Mahara to address security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.