Learn about CVE-2017-8808, an XSS vulnerability in MediaWiki versions before 1.27.4, 1.28.x before 1.28.3, and 1.29.x before 1.29.2. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
MediaWiki before 1.27.4, 1.28.x before 1.28.3, and 1.29.x before 1.29.2 has an XSS vulnerability when the $wgShowExceptionDetails setting is false and non-standard URL escaping is used by the browser.
Understanding CVE-2017-8808
This CVE involves an XSS vulnerability in specific versions of MediaWiki that can be exploited under certain conditions.
What is CVE-2017-8808?
CVE-2017-8808 is an XSS vulnerability found in MediaWiki versions prior to 1.27.4, 1.28.x before 1.28.3, and 1.29.x before 1.29.2. The vulnerability arises when the $wgShowExceptionDetails setting is disabled, and the browser utilizes non-standard URL escaping.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8808
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-2017-8808
MediaWiki versions before 1.27.4, 1.28.x before 1.28.3, and 1.29.x before 1.29.2 are susceptible to an XSS vulnerability due to specific configurations and browser behavior.
Vulnerability Description
The XSS vulnerability in CVE-2017-8808 occurs when $wgShowExceptionDetails is set to false and non-standard URL escaping is employed by the browser, enabling malicious script execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious URLs that, when clicked by users, execute unauthorized scripts due to the XSS issue.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-8808 and enhance security, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
Long-Term Security Practices
Patching and Updates