CVE-2023-3191 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability has been identified and published as CVE-2023-3191. This vulnerability is stored in the GitHub repository nilsteampassnet/teampass prior to version 3.0.9.

Understanding CVE-2023-3191

This section will provide insights into the nature of CVE-2023-3191, its impact, technical details, and steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation.

What is CVE-2023-3191?

CVE-2023-3191 is a Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability stored in the GitHub repository nilsteampassnet/teampass before version 3.0.9. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3191

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS base score of 8.1. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to compromise the confidentiality and integrity of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3191

Let's dive into the specific technical aspects of CVE-2023-3191 to better understand its implications.

Vulnerability Description

CVE-2023-3191 is classified under CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting'). This classification indicates the vulnerability's nature, specifically targeting the improper handling of user input.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the product nilsteampassnet/teampass with versions prior to 3.0.9. Systems running these versions are susceptible to XSS attacks leveraging this security flaw.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-3191 involves injecting malicious scripts that can be executed within the context of a user's web browser. Attackers typically craft URLs or input fields to deliver the payload and execute unauthorized actions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-3191 requires a proactive approach to mitigate the risks associated with this XSS vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and administrators are advised to update the teampass product to version 3.0.9 or later to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, input validation and output encoding should be implemented to sanitize user inputs effectively.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing secure coding practices and conducting regular security audits can help in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities like XSS in the early stages of development.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying patches and updates released by the software vendor is crucial to maintaining a secure environment. Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply recommended fixes to avoid falling victim to known vulnerabilities.