CVE-2021-41174 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-41174 where an XSS vulnerability in Grafana leads to arbitrary JavaScript execution and how to mitigate the risks. Upgrade to secure versions and implement long-term security measures.
Grafana is an open-source platform for monitoring and observability. In affected versions, an XSS vulnerability allows arbitrary JavaScript execution, potentially leading to security breaches.
Understanding CVE-2021-41174
In this CVE, a serious Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Grafana exposes users to arbitrary JavaScript execution, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action.
What is CVE-2021-41174?
The vulnerability in Grafana enables attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript by convincing a user to visit a malicious URL targeting a vulnerable page. This leads to unauthorized code execution in the victim's browser through AngularJS rendering.
The Impact of CVE-2021-41174
The exploit allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript within the victim's browser context, potentially compromising confidentiality and integrity. The severity is rated as MEDIUM with a CVSS base score of 6.9.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-41174
This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to improper input neutralization during webpage generation, facilitating XSS attacks within Grafana's environment.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Grafana
- Vendor: Grafana
- Versions: >= 8.0.0, < 8.2.3
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: HIGH
- Attack Vector: NETWORK
- Privileges Required: NONE
- User Interaction: REQUIRED
- Scope: CHANGED
- Availability Impact: NONE
- Confidentiality Impact: LOW
- Integrity Impact: HIGH
Mitigation and Prevention
Taking immediate action and implementing long-term security measures are essential to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-41174.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Grafana to a secure version (>= 8.2.3) promptly.
- If unable to upgrade immediately, consider using a reverse proxy to block access to vulnerable paths.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Grafana and implement consistent security patches.
- Educate users on recognizing and avoiding malicious URLs to prevent XSS attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches released by Grafana promptly to address and prevent XSS vulnerabilities in the future.