Discover how the CVE-2022-21710 vulnerability in ShortDescription extension by StarCitizenTools exposes MediaWiki installations to cross-site scripting attacks. Learn about the impact, mitigation, and necessary updates to secure your system.
ShortDescription is a MediaWiki extension by StarCitizenTools vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. This article provides insights into CVE-2022-21710 detailing the vulnerability, impact, and mitigation strategies.
Understanding CVE-2022-21710
This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2022-21710 vulnerability in the ShortDescription extension.
What is CVE-2022-21710?
ShortDescription, a MediaWiki extension by StarCitizenTools, before version 2.3.4 is vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack. This allows malicious actors to trigger XSS on wiki pages using a specific wikitext.
The Impact of CVE-2022-21710
The vulnerability in ShortDescription extension could be exploited to execute malicious scripts on wiki pages, posing a risk of unauthorized access or data manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-21710
This section provides technical insights into the CVE-2022-21710 vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The XSS vulnerability in ShortDescription extension allows attackers to execute malicious scripts by exploiting the SHORTDESC property, potentially leading to unauthorized actions on affected wiki pages.
Affected Systems and Versions
Versions of the ShortDescription extension prior to 2.3.4 are affected by CVE-2022-21710, making them susceptible to XSS attacks.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by inserting specific wikitext, such as
{{SHORTDESC:<img src=x onerror=alert()>}}
, on wiki pages to trigger XSS.
Mitigation and Prevention
In response to CVE-2022-21710, users and administrators are advised to implement immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should upgrade to version 2.3.4 of the ShortDescription extension to mitigate the XSS vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
It is recommended to validate user input, sanitize content, and regularly review and update extensions to enhance the security of MediaWiki installations.
Patching and Updates
StarCitizenTools has released version 2.3.4 with a patch addressing the XSS vulnerability. Users are encouraged to promptly update their installations to the latest version.