CVE-2019-17660 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-17660, a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in LimeSurvey versions 3.19.1 and earlier, allowing remote attackers to inject malicious web script or HTML. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
LimeSurvey version 3.19.1 and earlier contain a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the admin/translate/translateheader_view.php module, allowing remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML.
Understanding CVE-2019-17660
This CVE involves a security issue in LimeSurvey versions 3.19.1 and prior that can be exploited through a specific module.
What is CVE-2019-17660?
The vulnerability in the admin/translate/translateheader_view.php module of LimeSurvey versions 3.19.1 and earlier permits attackers to insert malicious HTML or web script by manipulating the tolang parameter.
The Impact of CVE-2019-17660
This XSS vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the affected site, potentially leading to various malicious activities such as data theft, unauthorized actions, or site defacement.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-17660
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows attackers to perform cross-site scripting attacks by injecting malicious code via the tolang parameter in the specified module.
Affected Systems and Versions
- LimeSurvey versions 3.19.1 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the tolang parameter in the admin/translate/translateheader_view.php module, as demonstrated in a specific path.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update LimeSurvey to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
- Implement input validation mechanisms to sanitize user inputs and prevent XSS attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit web applications for security vulnerabilities.
- Educate developers and users on secure coding practices to mitigate XSS risks.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches and updates provided by LimeSurvey promptly to address known vulnerabilities.