CVE-2018-18623 : Security Advisory and Response

Grafana 5.3.1 has a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability that can be exploited through the "Dashboard > Text Panel" screen. This vulnerability is due to an incomplete fix for a previous CVE.

Understanding CVE-2018-18623

This CVE involves a security issue in Grafana version 5.3.1 that allows for XSS attacks through a specific screen within the application.

What is CVE-2018-18623?

CVE-2018-18623 is a vulnerability in Grafana 5.3.1 that enables attackers to execute cross-site scripting attacks by leveraging the "Dashboard > Text Panel" feature.

The Impact of CVE-2018-18623

The vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized code execution and potential data theft through malicious scripts injected via the affected screen in Grafana.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-18623

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in Grafana 5.3.1 allows threat actors to inject and execute malicious scripts through the "Dashboard > Text Panel" interface, compromising the security of the application.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Grafana
Version: 5.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting and injecting malicious scripts into the text panel of Grafana dashboards, leading to the execution of unauthorized code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-18623 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Grafana to a patched version that addresses the XSS vulnerability.
Avoid interacting with untrusted or suspicious links or content within Grafana.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Grafana and other software to the latest secure versions.
Implement content security policies (CSP) to mitigate XSS risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates released by Grafana to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.