CVE-2019-20436 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in WSO2 API Manager 2.6.0, WSO2 IS as Key Manager 5.7.0, and WSO2 Identity Server 5.8.0 that allows for XSS payload execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-20436

This CVE involves the execution of an XSS payload through a claim dialect setup in specific WSO2 products.

What is CVE-2019-20436?

This vulnerability occurs when a claim dialect is configured with an XSS payload in the dialect URI, leading to the execution of the payload when selected as the service provider claim dialect.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20436

CVSS Base Score: 6.1 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
Privileges Required: None
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: None

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20436

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an attacker to execute an XSS payload by manipulating the service provider claim dialect in WSO2 products.

Affected Systems and Versions

WSO2 API Manager 2.6.0
WSO2 IS as Key Manager 5.7.0
WSO2 Identity Server 5.8.0

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker needs login credentials for the management console and the necessary privileges to configure claim dialects.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-20436 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or restrict access to the management console for unauthorized users.
Regularly monitor and review claim dialect configurations.
Implement input validation to prevent XSS payloads.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security training for system administrators on secure configuration practices.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from WSO2.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by WSO2 to address this vulnerability.