CVE-2019-13081 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Quest KACE Systems Management Appliance Server Center 9.1.317 has an XSS vulnerability that allows an authenticated user to execute arbitrary JavaScript in a service desk user's browser.

Understanding CVE-2019-13081

This CVE identifies a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Quest KACE Systems Management Appliance Server Center 9.1.317.

What is CVE-2019-13081?

The vulnerability in the title field of the /common/ticket_associated_tickets.php service desk ticket functionality can be exploited by an authenticated user to execute arbitrary JavaScript in a service desk user's browser, potentially leading to XSS attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13081

The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized execution of JavaScript code in the context of a service desk user's session, potentially leading to various attacks such as stealing sensitive information or performing actions on behalf of the user.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13081

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in Quest KACE Systems Management Appliance Server Center 9.1.317 allows an authenticated user to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the service desk user's browser through the title field of the /common/ticket_associated_tickets.php functionality.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Quest KACE Systems Management Appliance Server Center 9.1.317
Vendor: Quest
Version: 9.1.317

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated user manipulating the title field of the service desk ticket functionality to inject malicious JavaScript code, which is then executed in the context of other service desk users' browsers.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-13081 and enhance security, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement input validation mechanisms to sanitize user inputs and prevent the execution of arbitrary JavaScript.
Regularly monitor and audit service desk activities for any suspicious behavior.
Educate users on identifying and reporting potential XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Quest for the Systems Management Appliance.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Quest to remediate the XSS vulnerability and enhance the security of the Systems Management Appliance.