CVE-2020-10688 : Security Advisory and Response

A cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in RESTEasy versions before 3.11.1.Final and 4.5.3.Final allows attackers to launch reflected XSS attacks.

Understanding CVE-2020-10688

This CVE involves a security flaw in RESTEasy that could be exploited for cross-site scripting attacks.

What is CVE-2020-10688?

CVE-2020-10688 is a vulnerability in RESTEasy versions prior to 3.11.1.Final and 4.5.3.Final, where improper handling of URL encoding in the RESTEASY003870 exception could lead to XSS attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10688

The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to execute reflected XSS attacks, potentially compromising the security and integrity of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10688

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS flaw in RESTEasy arises from inadequate URL encoding handling during the RESTEASY003870 exception, creating an avenue for attackers to trigger reflected XSS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: RESTEasy
Versions Affected: 3.11.1.Final, 4.5.3.Final

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the URL encoding when the RESTEASY003870 exception occurs, enabling the execution of reflected XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-10688 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update RESTEasy to versions 3.11.1.Final or 4.5.3.Final to mitigate 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 on secure coding practices to prevent XSS and other common web application security risks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by RESTEasy promptly to address the XSS vulnerability.