CVE-2017-5191 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-5191, an XSS vulnerability in NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3 due to inadequate HTTP Referer header validation. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3 are affected by an XSS vulnerability due to inadequate validation of the HTTP Referer header on the /NAGErrors URI.
Understanding CVE-2017-5191
This CVE involves a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3.
What is CVE-2017-5191?
This CVE identifies an XSS vulnerability in NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3, specifically on the /NAGErrors URI. The issue arises from the lack of validation of the HTTP Referer header in Access Gateway Error pages.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5191
The presence of this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5191
NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3 are susceptible to XSS attacks due to the following:
Vulnerability Description
The XSS vulnerability in these versions stems from the failure to validate the HTTP Referer header in Access Gateway Error pages.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: NetIQ Access Manager 4.2 and NetIQ Access Manager 4.3
- Vendor: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts through the HTTP Referer header on the /NAGErrors URI, potentially compromising user sessions.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-5191, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Implement input validation mechanisms to sanitize user inputs and prevent script injection.
- Regularly monitor and analyze HTTP headers for anomalies or suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
- Educate developers and administrators on secure coding practices and the importance of input validation.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches or updates provided by the vendor to address the XSS vulnerability in NetIQ Access Manager versions 4.2 and 4.3.