CVE-2021-28079 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Jamovi <=1.6.18 is affected by a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the ElectronJS Framework. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious .omv (Jamovi) document to execute arbitrary code when opened by a victim.

Understanding CVE-2021-28079

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-28079 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-28079?

CVE-2021-28079 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in Jamovi <=1.6.18. The vulnerability exists in the column-name parameter within the ElectronJS Framework, allowing an attacker to execute malicious scripts.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28079

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables attackers to create specially crafted Jamovi documents to trigger malicious payloads when opened by unsuspecting victims.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28079

In this section, we delve into the specific technical details of CVE-2021-28079.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in Jamovi <=1.6.18 occurs due to inadequate input validation, allowing threat actors to inject and execute malicious scripts via a crafted .omv document.

Affected Systems and Versions

Jamovi versions up to and including 1.6.18 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit CVE-2021-28079 by leveraging the XSS weakness in the ElectronJS Framework, crafting malicious .omv files to deliver and execute payloads upon document opening.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines essential steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-28079.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should refrain from opening untrusted .omv files and consider updating to a patched version of Jamovi to eliminate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regular security updates, and educating users on safe document handling can enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial for users to apply security patches promptly and stay informed about software updates to protect against known vulnerabilities.