CVE-2023-33969 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Understanding CVE-2023-33969

A Stored Cross site scripting vulnerability has been discovered in the Task External Link Functionality in Kanboard, an open-source project management software.

What is CVE-2023-33969?

Kanboard is open source project management software that focuses on the Kanban methodology. The stored Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary Javascript. Any user who views the task containing the malicious code will be exposed to the XSS attack. It is important to note that the default Content Security Policy (CSP) header configuration blocks this Javascript attack.

The Impact of CVE-2023-33969

This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.4, with a MEDIUM severity rating. It has a low impact on confidentiality, integrity, and privileges, requiring a low level of user interaction. The attack complexity is low, with no availability impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-33969

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, leading to a Cross-site scripting threat.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: kanboard
Product: kanboard
Affected Version: < 1.2.30

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows an attacker to insert malicious Javascript code through the Task External Link Functionality in Kanboard, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade to version 1.2.30 or higher, where the issue has been fixed.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure that the CSP header configuration is restrictive to mitigate similar XSS attacks in the future.

Patching and Updates

Refer to the provided references for the official patch and commit related to this CVE.