CVE-2023-23927 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A cross-site scripting vulnerability has been identified in Craft CMS, impacting versions prior to 4.3.7, allowing malicious actors to execute malicious scripts within the context of a user's session.

Understanding CVE-2023-23927

Craft CMS is a platform utilized for creating digital experiences. This CVE revolves around a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability that affects versions below 4.3.7, enabling attackers to inject malicious scripts into label names or instructions of an entry type, resulting in a cross-site scripting (XSS) exploit within the quick post widget on the admin dashboard.

What is CVE-2023-23927?

The CVE-2023-23927 involves an improper neutralization of input during web page generation (cross-site scripting) within Craft CMS, potentially allowing threat actors to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23927

This vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk, with low confidentiality and integrity impacts. An attacker with network access and user interaction can exploit this vulnerability without requiring any special privileges, demonstrating the importance of prompt mitigation measures.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23927

The vulnerability score for CVE-2023-23927 is 6.1 out of 10, indicating a medium severity level. The attack complexity is low, requiring only network access and user interaction. While the availability impact is none, the confidentiality and integrity impacts are both low. No special privileges are needed for exploitation, and the scope is changed with user interaction required.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for the injection of malicious scripts into label names or instructions of an entry type in Craft CMS, leading to cross-site scripting attacks in the quick post widget on the admin dashboard.

Affected Systems and Versions

Craft CMS versions prior to 4.3.7 are impacted by this vulnerability, making it crucial for users to update to the fixed version to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by inserting a payload inside a label name or instruction of an entry type, triggering a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack in the quick post widget on the admin dashboard.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23927 and enhance security posture, users are advised to take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices to mitigate the risk of cross-site scripting attacks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Craft CMS to version 4.3.7 or later to apply the necessary security patches and fix the vulnerability.
Educate users about the risks of cross-site scripting and ensure they are vigilant when handling inputs that could be manipulated by attackers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and updates for Craft CMS to stay informed about the latest vulnerabilities and patches.
Implement web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms to prevent and detect cross-site scripting vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Craft CMS has released a fixed version 4.3.7 that addresses the CVE-2023-23927 vulnerability. Users are strongly encouraged to promptly update their installations to this version to protect against potential exploitation and secure their systems.