CVE-2023-28819 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Stored XSS vulnerability has been identified in Concrete CMS (previously concrete5) versions 8.5.12 and below, 9.0.0 through 9.0.2. This vulnerability exists in the uploaded file and folder names, potentially allowing malicious actors to execute arbitrary scripts within the context of the affected site.

Understanding CVE-2023-28819

This section provides an insight into the nature of CVE-2023-28819 and its impact on systems and security.

What is CVE-2023-28819?

CVE-2023-28819 is a vulnerability found in Concrete CMS that enables an attacker to store malicious scripts in file and folder names uploaded to the system. This could lead to the execution of these scripts in the context of the website, posing a threat to the security and integrity of the affected platform.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28819

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized as low severity according to the CVSS v3.1 scoring system. However, the potential for stored XSS attacks in file and folder names can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of user data, especially in websites utilizing the affected versions of Concrete CMS.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28819

Delving into the specifics of CVE-2023-28819 sheds light on the vulnerability itself, the affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Concrete CMS versions 8.5.12 and below, as well as 9.0.0 through 9.0.2, allows for the storage of malicious scripts in uploaded file and folder names. This Stored XSS vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to inject and execute script code within the affected web application.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Concrete CMS versions 8.5.12 and below, and versions 9.0.0 through 9.0.2. Websites running these versions are at risk of exploitation through the manipulation of file and folder names containing malicious scripts.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability leverages the ability to upload files and folders with malicious script content. By manipulating the names of these uploaded files, attackers can trick the system into executing the embedded scripts, leading to potential cross-site scripting attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

An essential aspect of addressing CVE-2023-28819 involves taking immediate steps to mitigate the risk and implementing long-term security practices to prevent future vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of Concrete CMS should update to the latest patched versions to eliminate the vulnerability.
Avoid uploading files or folders with suspicious or executable content to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to sanitize user-generated content and prevent script injections.
Regular security monitoring and audits can help in identifying and patching vulnerabilities in a timely manner.

Patching and Updates

Concrete CMS users are strongly advised to apply security patches released by the platform to address CVE-2023-28819. Regularly updating the CMS to the latest versions will ensure protection against known security threats and vulnerabilities.