CVE-2021-32602 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-32602, an improper neutralization of input vulnerability in Fortinet FortiPortal, allowing for cross-site scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-32602

This section delves into the details of the vulnerability, its impact, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-32602?

The vulnerability involves an improper neutralization of input during web page generation in FortiPortal GUI versions 6.0.4 and below, potentially enabling a remote attacker to execute cross-site scripting attacks via crafted requests.

The Impact of CVE-2021-32602

With a CVSS base score of 5.7 (Medium Severity), this vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated attacker to conduct XSS attacks, posing a risk to the integrity of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-32602

This section outlines the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in FortiPortal GUI versions 6.0.4 and below arises from improper input neutralization during web page generation, potentially leading to XSS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Fortinet FortiPortal versions 6.0.4 and below, 5.3.6 and below, 5.2.6 and below, 5.1.2 and below, 5.0.3 and below, 4.2.2 and below, 4.1.2 and below, 4.0.4 and below are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote and unauthenticated attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted request with an invalid 'lang' parameter or 'org.springframework.web.servlet.i18n.CookieLocaleResolver.LOCALE' value.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section covers immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to enhance resilience against CVE-2021-32602.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls, input validation mechanisms, and security headers to mitigate XSS risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security assessments, training for developers on secure coding practices, and timely security updates are crucial to prevent and address such vulnerabilities effectively.

Patching and Updates

Fortinet has addressed this vulnerability in newer versions of FortiPortal GUI. It is recommended to apply the latest security patches and updates to safeguard systems.