CVE-2019-3501 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The OUGC Awards plugin for MyBB before version 1.8.19 is vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, allowing malicious users to exploit the system by inputting specially crafted award reasons.

Understanding CVE-2019-3501

This CVE entry highlights a security vulnerability in the OUGC Awards plugin for MyBB that could be exploited by attackers to execute XSS attacks.

What is CVE-2019-3501?

The OUGC Awards plugin prior to version 1.8.19 for MyBB contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability. This flaw can be abused by a malicious user who inputs a manipulated award reason, triggering the vulnerability when the award page or a user profile processes the crafted input.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3501

The XSS vulnerability in the OUGC Awards plugin could lead to unauthorized script execution, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3501

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE entry.

Vulnerability Description

The OUGC Awards plugin before version 1.8.19 for MyBB allows XSS attacks through a manipulated award reason that is mishandled on the awards page or in a user profile.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: OUGC Awards plugin
Vendor: MyBB
Versions affected: All versions before 1.8.19

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by inputting a specially crafted award reason, which, when processed on the award page or a user profile, triggers the XSS vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-3501 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the OUGC Awards plugin to version 1.8.19 or newer to mitigate the XSS vulnerability.
Educate users to avoid inputting suspicious or crafted content that could trigger security flaws.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit user inputs and system outputs for any signs of malicious activity.
Implement content security policies (CSP) to mitigate XSS risks and enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by MyBB for the OUGC Awards plugin.
Promptly apply patches to ensure the system is protected against known vulnerabilities.