CVE-2022-36068 : Security Advisory and Response

Discourse moderators can edit themes via the API.

Understanding CVE-2022-36068

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Discourse that allows moderators to create and edit themes using the API, which they should not be able to do.

What is CVE-2022-36068?

In Discourse versions before 2.8.9 on the

stable

branch and before 2.9.0.beta10 on the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches, moderators can manipulate themes through the API unauthorizedly.

The Impact of CVE-2022-36068

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.2, indicating a high severity issue with impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-36068

This section provides more details on the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows moderators to perform unauthorized actions related to themes in Discourse via the API.

Affected Systems and Versions

Discourse versions prior to 2.8.9 on the

stable

branch and before 2.9.0.beta10 on the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches are impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

Moderators can misuse the API to create and edit themes, bypassing proper authorization mechanisms.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore how to address and prevent this security issue.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Discourse to version 2.8.9 on the

stable

branch or version 2.9.0.beta10 on the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict access controls and regularly monitor API activities to prevent unauthorized theme modifications.

Patching and Updates

Stay updated with security patches and version upgrades to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.