CVE-2021-46426 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

phpIPAM 1.4.4 allows Reflected XSS and CSRF via app/admin/subnets/find_free_section_subnets.php of the subnets functionality.

Understanding CVE-2021-46426

What is CVE-2021-46426?

CVE-2021-46426 is a vulnerability in phpIPAM 1.4.4 that enables Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) through the subnets functionality.

The Impact of CVE-2021-46426

This vulnerability can be exploited to execute malicious scripts, steal sensitive data, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users without their consent.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-46426

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation in the specific functionality of finding free section subnets, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts via CSRF and XSS.

Affected Systems and Versions

Version affected: phpIPAM 1.4.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can craft malicious links or scripts that, when clicked or executed by a user with privileges, can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, or complete system compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest patches provided by phpIPAM to address the vulnerability.
Educate users about the risks of clicking on unknown links or executing scripts from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update phpIPAM and other software to patch vulnerabilities and enhance security.
Implement security mechanisms like Content Security Policy (CSP) to mitigate XSS risks.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for updates and security advisories from phpIPAM and apply patches promptly to ensure system security.