CVE-2019-14456 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Opengear console server firmware versions older than 4.5.0 are vulnerable to stored XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attacks through serial port logging.

Understanding CVE-2019-14456

Versions of Opengear console server firmware prior to 4.5.0 are susceptible to a security flaw known as stored XSS, which can be exploited through serial port logging.

What is CVE-2019-14456?

The vulnerability allows a malicious actor connected to a serial port on an Opengear console server to inject crafted text, which will be replayed in logs when viewed, requiring access to the serial port or console server.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14456

Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or disruption of services on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14456

Opengear console server firmware versions prior to 4.5.0 are at risk due to stored XSS vulnerability associated with serial port logging.

Vulnerability Description

Stored XSS vulnerability in Opengear console server firmware versions older than 4.5.0
Malicious text injection through serial port logging

Affected Systems and Versions

Opengear console server firmware versions before 4.5.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Crafted text sent to serial port with logging enabled
Text replayed in logs when viewed

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Update Opengear console server firmware to version 4.5.0 or newer
Disable serial port logging if not essential

Long-Term Security Practices:

Regularly monitor and audit serial port activities
Implement network segmentation to limit access to critical systems

Patching and Updates:

Apply security patches promptly