CVE-2021-31858 : Security Advisory and Response

DotNetNuke (DNN) 9.9.1 CMS is vulnerable to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw in the user profile biography section, enabling remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code through a malicious payload.

Understanding CVE-2021-31858

This section provides insights into the impact and technical details of the CVE-2021-31858 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-31858?

CVE-2021-31858 highlights a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in DotNetNuke (DNN) 9.9.1 CMS, specifically in the user profile biography section.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31858

The vulnerability allows remote authenticated users to inject and execute arbitrary code by leveraging a crafted payload, posing a significant security risk to the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31858

Delve deeper into the technical aspects of the vulnerability to comprehend its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in DotNetNuke (DNN) 9.9.1 CMS enables attackers to store malicious scripts within the user profile biography section, which are later executed in the context of authenticated users, leading to potential data breaches and system compromise.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects systems running DNN version 9.9.1, allowing attackers with authenticated access to exploit the security loophole.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote authenticated users can exploit this vulnerability by inserting a specially crafted payload into the user profile biography section, resulting in the execution of arbitrary code within the application environment.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore the necessary steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-31858 and safeguard your systems against potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update DotNetNuke (DNN) CMS to the latest patched version to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor user profile changes for any suspicious activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review user input fields within the CMS to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Educate users on secure coding practices to minimize the risk of introducing malicious code into the system.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by DotNetNuke (DNN) to address known vulnerabilities and ensure the continued security of your CMS environment.