CVE-2018-20726 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Cacti software version before 1.2.0 is vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) issue in the host.php file. This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of characters in the Website Hostname field for Devices.

Understanding CVE-2018-20726

This CVE entry highlights a security flaw in Cacti software that could be exploited through a cross-site scripting attack.

What is CVE-2018-20726?

CVE-2018-20726 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in Cacti software versions prior to 1.2.0. The issue specifically resides in the host.php file, which is accessed via tree.php. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts into the Website Hostname field for Devices.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20726

This vulnerability could allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20726

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in Cacti software versions prior to 1.2.0 stems from the lack of proper character escaping in the Website Hostname field for Devices, specifically in the host.php file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Cacti software versions before 1.2.0
Affected Versions: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts into the Website Hostname field for Devices, which, when executed, can lead to unauthorized actions within the application.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-20726 and enhance overall security, it is crucial to implement immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Cacti software to version 1.2.0 or later to mitigate the XSS vulnerability.
Regularly monitor and review input fields for any suspicious or unexpected content.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Educate users and developers on secure coding practices to prevent XSS and other common web application security issues.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Cacti to promptly apply patches and fixes for known vulnerabilities.