CVE-2023-29206 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A critical vulnerability has been discovered in the XWiki platform, specifically in the xwiki-platform-skin-skinx container. This vulnerability allows for basic Cross-site Scripting by exploiting JSX or SSX plugins.

Understanding CVE-2023-29206

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-29206.

What is CVE-2023-29206?

The vulnerability in the xwiki-platform-skin-skinx container allows attackers to conduct Cross-site Scripting attacks by exploiting JSX or SSX plugins. This could lead to unauthorized access and potential data manipulation on affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2023-29206

The impact of this vulnerability is critical, with a CVSS base score of 9.1 (Critical). It poses a significant threat to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. Attackers can potentially execute malicious scripts and access sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-29206

Let's explore the technical details surrounding CVE-2023-29206.

Vulnerability Description

XWiki Commons are technical libraries common to several other top-level XWiki projects. The vulnerability arises from a lack of validation in the authorship of JavaScript xobjects or StyleSheet xobjects added in XWiki documents. This oversight allows users with Edit Rights to create objects that execute scripts, leading to unauthorized operations when executed by users with the appropriate rights. The patch implemented in XWiki 14.9-rc-1 ensures that scripts are only executed if the author possesses Script rights.

Affected Systems and Versions

The xwiki-platform-skin-skinx container in XWiki versions greater than or equal to 3.0-milestone-1 and less than 14.9-rc-1 are affected by this vulnerability. Users operating on these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-29206 involves leveraging JSX or SSX plugins to inject malicious scripts, enabling attackers to perform Cross-site Scripting attacks. By manipulating inputs, threat actors can execute arbitrary code and compromise system security.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the measures that can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-29206.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their XWiki installations to version 14.9-rc-1 or later to apply the security patch that addresses this vulnerability.
System administrators should monitor for any suspicious activities or unauthorized script executions within XWiki Commons.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent future vulnerabilities and ensure robust protection against XSS attacks.
Educate users on secure coding practices and the risks associated with executing unvalidated scripts.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and software updates released by the XWiki platform to promptly address any newly discovered vulnerabilities.