CVE-2021-43080 : What You Need to Know

Fortinet FortiOS is affected by an improper neutralization of input vulnerability, potentially enabling a stored cross-site scripting attack.

Understanding CVE-2021-43080

This CVE describes a vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS versions that could allow an attacker to execute a stored XSS attack.

What is CVE-2021-43080?

The vulnerability involves improper input neutralization during web page generation in FortiOS, permitting a stored cross-site scripting attack through a specific URI parameter.

The Impact of CVE-2021-43080

The vulnerability's base severity is rated as medium (CVSS score of 4.5), with low impacts on confidentiality and integrity. An authenticated attacker can exploit this flaw by using the Threat Feed IP address section of the Security Fabric External connectors.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-43080

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS versions allows an authenticated attacker to execute a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack via a URI parameter.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Fortinet FortiOS
Versions: 7.2.0, 7.0.5, 7.0.4, 7.0.3, 7.0.2, 7.0.1, 7.0.0, 6.4.9, 6.4.8, 6.4.7, 6.4.6, 6.4.5, 6.4.4, 6.4.3, 6.4.2, 6.4.1, 6.4.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated attacker leveraging the Threat Feed IP address section of the Security Fabric External connectors.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-43080.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update FortiOS to the fixed version provided by Fortinet.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Fortinet FortiOS to the latest versions.
Educate users on safe browsing practices to avoid XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Fortinet to address the vulnerability.