CVE-2019-9709 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability was found in Mahara versions 17.10 to 17.10.8, 18.04 to 18.04.4, and 18.10 to 18.10.1, allowing for Cross Site Scripting attacks through the SmartEvidence overview page.

Understanding CVE-2019-9709

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Mahara versions that could be exploited by logged-in users.

What is CVE-2019-9709?

This CVE pertains to a Cross Site Scripting vulnerability in Mahara versions 17.10 to 17.10.8, 18.04 to 18.04.4, and 18.10 to 18.10.1, specifically related to the SmartEvidence overview page.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9709

The vulnerability allows any logged-in user to execute Cross Site Scripting attacks through the collection title on the SmartEvidence overview page.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9709

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The SmartEvidence overview page in Mahara fails to properly escape the collection title, leaving it open to Cross Site Scripting attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Mahara versions 17.10 to 17.10.8
Mahara versions 18.04 to 18.04.4
Mahara versions 18.10 to 18.10.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Any user with logged-in access can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the collection title on the SmartEvidence overview page.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-9709 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the SmartEvidence feature if not essential
Regularly monitor and review user-generated content
Educate users on safe browsing practices

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement input validation and output encoding in web applications
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing
Stay informed about security updates and patches

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Mahara is updated to versions that have addressed this vulnerability.