CVE-2020-15721 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-15721, a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in RosarioSIS through 6.8-beta, allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts via specific href attributes.
RosarioSIS through 6.8-beta allows XSS in modules/Custom/NotifyParents.php due to href attributes for AddStudents.php and User.php.
Understanding CVE-2020-15721
RosarioSIS through 6.8-beta is vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack that can be exploited through specific href attributes.
What is CVE-2020-15721?
This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in RosarioSIS through version 6.8-beta that enables XSS attacks via the href attributes in the NotifyParents.php module.
The Impact of CVE-2020-15721
The vulnerability allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data theft.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-15721
RosarioSIS through 6.8-beta is susceptible to XSS attacks due to inadequate input validation in specific PHP files.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from improper handling of user-supplied data in the href attributes of AddStudents.php and User.php, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: RosarioSIS
- Version: 6.8-beta
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious URLs containing script payloads that, when clicked by a user with the affected version, execute unauthorized actions.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2020-15721.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable the affected modules or restrict access to vulnerable files.
- Implement input validation and output encoding to prevent XSS attacks.
- Regularly monitor and audit web application logs for suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches or updates provided by RosarioSIS to fix the XSS vulnerability.