CVE-2022-43688 : Security Advisory and Response

A stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability has been discovered in Concrete CMS (formerly concrete5) versions below 8.5.10 and between 9.0.0 and 9.1.2. This vulnerability occurs in icons due to unsanitized Microsoft application tile color, allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts. Upgrading to Concrete CMS 9.1.3+ or 8.5.10+ is recommended to mitigate this issue.

Understanding CVE-2022-43688

Concrete CMS versions prior to 8.5.10 and between 9.0.0 and 9.1.2 are susceptible to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks in icons.

What is CVE-2022-43688?

CVE-2022-43688 is a security vulnerability in Concrete CMS where certain versions are exposed to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) due to unsanitized Microsoft application tile color in icons. Attackers can exploit this flaw to inject malicious scripts into the web application.

The Impact of CVE-2022-43688

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary scripts within the context of the user's session, potentially leading to account takeover, data theft, and other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-43688

Concrete CMS versions below 8.5.10 and between 9.0.0 and 9.1.2 are affected by a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in icons.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of proper sanitization of the Microsoft application tile color in icons, enabling attackers to inject malicious scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of Concrete CMS prior to 8.5.10 and between 9.0.0 and 9.1.2 are impacted by this XSS vulnerability in icons.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by inserting malicious scripts into icons, taking advantage of the unsanitized Microsoft application tile color to execute XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-43688, immediate action and long-term security practices are necessary to safeguard systems and data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Concrete CMS to version 9.1.3+ or 8.5.10+ to prevent exploitation of this XSS vulnerability. Additionally, implement web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms to mitigate XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest stable versions, conduct security assessments, and educate users on safe browsing habits to enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Refer to Concrete CMS's official release notes and security advisories for CVE-2022-43688 to stay informed about patches and updates addressing this vulnerability.