CVE-2021-29483 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in ManageWiki, an extension to the MediaWiki project, allowed the 'wikiconfig' API to leak private configuration variables, impacting confidentiality severely. Here's what you need to know about CVE-2021-29483.

Understanding CVE-2021-29483

This CVE discloses a security flaw in the ManageWiki extension to the MediaWiki project, resulting in the exposure of sensitive information.

What is CVE-2021-29483?

ManageWiki's 'wikiconfig' API inadvertently disclosed private configuration variables to all users, posing a critical risk to data confidentiality.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29483

With a CVSS base score of 9.4, CVE-2021-29483 is deemed critical, primarily affecting confidentiality and availability while requiring no user interaction for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29483

Discover more about the specific technical aspects and implications of this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stemmed from the 'wikiconfig' API leaking private configuration data set through ManageWiki, jeopardizing data confidentiality.

Affected Systems and Versions

Users of ManageWiki with versions before '< befb83c66f5b643e174897ea41a8a46679b26304' are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited over a network with low attack complexity, affecting systems with unchanged scope and no required privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore the necessary steps and best practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-29483.

Immediate Steps to Take

If unable to apply the patch, setting

$wgAPIListModules['wikiconfig'] = 'ApiQueryDisabled';

or removing private configurations can mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure regular security updates, conduct thorough code reviews, and limit access to sensitive configuration data to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Patching and Updates

Refer to the provided patch at this link or related advisories for the necessary fixes and updates.