CVE-2020-25815 : What You Need to Know

An issue was discovered in MediaWiki 1.32.x through 1.34.x before 1.34.4. LogEventList::getFiltersDesc is insecurely using message text to build options names for an HTML multi-select field. The relevant code should use escaped() instead of text().

Understanding CVE-2020-25815

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in MediaWiki versions 1.32.x through 1.34.x.

What is CVE-2020-25815?

The vulnerability arises from insecure usage of message text to construct options names for an HTML multi-select field in MediaWiki.

The Impact of CVE-2020-25815

The vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to execute cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks by manipulating the options names in the multi-select field.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-25815

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue lies in the insecure handling of message text to create options names for an HTML multi-select field, which can be exploited for XSS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

MediaWiki versions 1.32.x through 1.34.x before 1.34.4 are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the options names in the HTML multi-select field to inject malicious scripts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-25815 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update MediaWiki to version 1.34.4 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and sanitize user inputs to prevent XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by MediaWiki to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.