CVE-2021-36737 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Apache Portals V3 Demo Portlet versions 3.0.0, 3.0.1, and 3.1.0 are affected by a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that can be exploited through the input fields of the Apache Pluto UrlTestPortlet. Users are advised to take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Understanding CVE-2021-36737

This CVE pertains to a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Apache Portals V3 Demo Portlet versions 3.0.0, 3.0.1, and 3.1.0. The vulnerability can allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a victim's session.

What is CVE-2021-36737?

The input fields of the Apache Pluto UrlTestPortlet are vulnerable to Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. Users are recommended to upgrade to version 3.1.1 of the v3-demo-portlet.war artifact.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36737

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in a victim's browser session, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the user.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36737

Vulnerability Description

The Apache Portals V3 Demo Portlet versions 3.0.0, 3.0.1, and 3.1.0 are vulnerable to Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks through the input fields of the Apache Pluto UrlTestPortlet.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected versions include:

org.apache.portals.pluto:PortletV3Demo 3.0.0
org.apache.portals.pluto:PortletV3Demo 3.0.1
org.apache.portals.pluto.demo:v3-demo-portlet 3.1.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts into the input fields of the Apache Pluto UrlTestPortlet, which can then be executed in the context of a victim's session.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2021-36737, users can follow these immediate steps:

Uninstall the v3-demo-portlet.war artifact
Migrate to version 3.1.1 of the v3-demo-portlet.war artifact

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to immediate mitigation steps, it is essential to implement secure coding practices, perform regular security assessments, and stay updated with the latest security patches.

Patching and Updates

Users should promptly apply patches provided by Apache Software Foundation to address the Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the affected versions of the Apache Portals V3 Demo Portlet.