CVE-2023-33186 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Understand the cross-site scripting flaw in Zulip Server's development branch via tooltips. Learn about impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps for CVE-2023-33186.
A detailed overview of CVE-2023-33186 focusing on a cross-site scripting vulnerability in Zulip Server's development branch via topic tooltip.
Understanding CVE-2023-33186
This section provides insights into the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
What is CVE-2023-33186?
Zulip Server's development branch from May 2, 2023, onwards, including beta versions 7.0-beta1 and 7.0-beta2, contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability affecting topic tooltips on the message feed. An attacker with message-sending capabilities can create a malicious topic, leading to potential JavaScript code execution on victim's systems.
The Impact of CVE-2023-33186
The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSSv3 base score of 8.2, impacting confidentiality and availability. Attack complexity is low, but user interaction is required, making it critical for users' awareness and prevention efforts.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-33186
Explore the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, allowing attackers to embed malicious scripts into tooltips, triggering code execution on victim's browsers.
Affected Systems and Versions
Zulip's development branch post-May 2, 2023, and beta versions 7.0-beta1 and 7.0-beta2 are affected by this vulnerability, putting users of these versions at risk.
Exploitation Mechanism
By crafting a specific malicious topic, an attacker can inject JavaScript code into the tooltip of a message, which activates upon victim interaction, potentially compromising sensitive data and system integrity.
Mitigation and Prevention
Learn how to safeguard systems against CVE-2023-33186.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should update Zulip Server to versions beyond 7.0-beta2, implement security best practices, and exercise caution when interacting with messages to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regular security audits, awareness training, and monitoring for unusual tooltip behavior can enhance overall cybersecurity posture.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security patches and updates released by Zulip to address vulnerabilities and ensure diligent maintenance of server versions.