CVE-2023-22972 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This is a CVE entry for a Reflected Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in OpenEMR < 7.0.0 that allows remote authenticated users to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the REQUEST_URI.

Understanding CVE-2023-22972

This CVE refers to a specific security vulnerability found in OpenEMR software versions prior to 7.0.0. The vulnerability enables authenticated remote users to insert malicious web scripts or HTML code through the REQUEST_URI, leading to potential XSS attacks.

What is CVE-2023-22972?

CVE-2023-22972 is a Reflected Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability that exists in OpenEMR versions lower than 7.0.0. It allows attackers with authenticated access to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML content through the REQUEST_URI parameter.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22972

This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious users to execute unauthorized code within the application when accessed by other users. This could potentially lead to various attacks compromising the security and integrity of the OpenEMR system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22972

The following details provide a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of CVE-2023-22972.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the interface/forms/eye_mag/php/eye_mag_functions.php file in OpenEMR versions prior to 7.0.0. Attackers with authenticated remote access can leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious web scripts or HTML content via the REQUEST_URI.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include OpenEMR versions below 7.0.0. Users utilizing these versions are at risk of potential XSS attacks if the vulnerability is exploited.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote authenticated users can exploit this vulnerability by injecting specially crafted web scripts or HTML through the REQUEST_URI parameter, which, when executed, can lead to unauthorized code execution within the application.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing and mitigating CVE-2023-22972 is crucial to prevent security breaches and unauthorized access within OpenEMR systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations using OpenEMR should update their systems to version 7.0.0 or higher, where the vulnerability has been patched.
Implement strict input validation mechanisms to prevent arbitrary code execution through user inputs.
Monitor network traffic and user activities for any suspicious behavior that could indicate an attempted XSS attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to ensure all known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.
Conduct thorough security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate potential security weaknesses.
Provide security awareness training to users to help them recognize and report suspicious activities within the system.

Patching and Updates

OpenEMR users should install the necessary patches and updates to upgrade to version 7.0.0 or higher, as it contains the fix for CVE-2023-22972. Regularly check for new updates and security releases to stay protected from emerging threats.