CVE-2019-5586 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An identified security flaw known as Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) has been discovered in Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.2.0 to 6.0.4, specifically within the SSL VPN web portal. This vulnerability could potentially enable a malicious actor to execute unauthorized script code by manipulating the "param" parameter in error process HTTP requests.

Understanding CVE-2019-5586

This CVE involves a reflected Cross-Site-Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.2.0 to 5.6.10 and 6.0.0 to 6.0.4 under the SSL VPN web portal, allowing attackers to execute unauthorized malicious script code.

What is CVE-2019-5586?

CVE-2019-5586 is a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.2.0 to 6.0.4 within the SSL VPN web portal.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5586

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to execute unauthorized script code by manipulating the "param" parameter in error process HTTP requests.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5586

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for the execution of unauthorized script code through the "param" parameter in error process HTTP requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.2.0 to 6.0.4 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the "param" parameter in error process HTTP requests.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2019-5586.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Fortinet FortiOS to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Implement strict input validation mechanisms.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Fortinet FortiOS to the latest version.
Conduct security training for employees on identifying and avoiding phishing attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Fortinet to address the XSS vulnerability in FortiOS versions 5.2.0 to 6.0.4.