CVE-2022-20905 : What You Need to Know

This article provides an overview of CVE-2022-20905, a vulnerability in Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software that could allow a remote attacker to conduct a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack. Read on to understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps associated with this CVE.

Understanding CVE-2022-20905

CVE-2022-20905 is a security vulnerability in the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software. It allows an authenticated, remote attacker to execute a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack against a user of the affected interface.

What is CVE-2022-20905?

The vulnerability arises due to the lack of proper validation of user-supplied input by the web-based management interface. An attacker can exploit this flaw by injecting malicious code into various data fields, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary script code in the interface context or unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2022-20905

Successful exploitation of CVE-2022-20905 could enable the attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the affected interface, access critical browser-based information, and potentially cause a temporary availability impact on portions of the FMC Dashboard.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-20905

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack via the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software versions 6.1.0 to 7.2.0 are affected by this vulnerability, with a wide range of subversions impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit the insufficient input validation in the web-based management interface by inserting crafted input into specific data fields, leading to the execution of malicious script code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply the necessary patches and updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure proper input validation mechanisms are in place for all user-supplied data within the web-based management interfaces to prevent similar XSS exploits.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor and apply security patches and updates released by Cisco for the Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks.