CVE-2023-22454 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE involves Discourse being vulnerable to Cross-site Scripting through pending post titles descriptions.

Understanding CVE-2023-22454

This vulnerability in Discourse allows for potential Cross-site Scripting attacks through pending post titles descriptions.

What is CVE-2023-22454?

Discourse, an open-source discussion platform, had a vulnerability prior to version 2.8.14 on the

stable

branch and version 3.0.0.beta16 on the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches. The issue arises when pending post titles descriptions can be exploited for Cross-site Scripting attacks. Unprivileged users can create pending posts in categories with the "require moderator approval of all new topics" setting, potentially leading to full XSS on sites that have adjusted or disabled Discourse’s default Content Security Policy. A patch is available in versions 2.8.14 and 3.0.0.beta16.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22454

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8. With low privileges required and user interaction, the vulnerability can have a significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22454

This section delves into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Discourse allows for Cross-site Scripting attacks through pending post titles descriptions before versions 2.8.14 and 3.0.0.beta16.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: discourse
Product: discourse
Affected Versions:
Version < 2.8.14
Version >= 2.9.0.beta0, < 3.0.0.beta16

Exploitation Mechanism

Unprivileged users can create pending posts in categories with specific settings, allowing for potential Cross-site Scripting attacks leveraging pending post titles descriptions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-22454, taking immediate steps, adopting long-term security practices, and applying relevant patches and updates are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Discourse to versions 2.8.14 or 3.0.0.beta16 where the vulnerability has been patched.
Review and adjust category settings regarding post approvals to mitigate the risk.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Discourse to the latest stable versions to ensure all security patches are applied promptly.
Educate users on safe posting practices and potential security risks associated with pending post titles.

Patching and Updates

Keep track of security advisories from Discourse to promptly apply patches for any identified vulnerabilities.
Monitor and enforce Content Security Policies to prevent Cross-site Scripting attacks through post titles descriptions.