CVE-2020-5729 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

OpenMRS 2.9 and prior versions are vulnerable to Cross Site Scripting (XSS) due to the UI Framework Error Page reflecting user-supplied input back to the browser.

Understanding CVE-2020-5729

In OpenMRS 2.9 and earlier versions, a security vulnerability exists that allows for XSS attacks through the UI Framework Error Page.

What is CVE-2020-5729?

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in OpenMRS versions 2.9 and prior that enables attackers to execute XSS attacks by manipulating user-supplied input.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5729

The vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the user's browser, potentially compromising sensitive data and user sessions.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5729

OpenMRS CVE-2020-5729 involves:

Vulnerability Description

The UI Framework Error Page reflects user-supplied input back to the browser, enabling XSS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

OpenMRS versions 2.9 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this issue by injecting malicious scripts into user input fields, leading to XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-5729 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update OpenMRS to a patched version that addresses the XSS vulnerability.
Implement input validation to sanitize user-supplied data and prevent script injection.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Educate developers and users on secure coding practices to mitigate XSS risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for OpenMRS and promptly apply patches to secure your systems.