CVE-2023-39513 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth look at CVE-2023-39513, focusing on a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Cacti that impacts versions below 1.2.25.

Understanding CVE-2023-39513

CVE-2023-39513 highlights a security issue in Cacti, an open-source operational monitoring and fault management framework, enabling attackers to execute JavaScript code through a stored XSS attack.

What is CVE-2023-39513?

Cacti's version below 1.2.25 is prone to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, allowing authenticated users to manipulate data stored in the database, potentially compromising user accounts through malicious code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2023-39513

The vulnerability permits an attacker to inject JavaScript code into the victim's browser, exploiting the 'host.php' script used for managing hosts in Cacti. This flaw can affect any user with the appropriate privileges, posing a significant risk to data integrity and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-39513

The details of the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation methods are crucial for understanding and addressing CVE-2023-39513.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of user input during web page generation in Cacti, allowing attackers to insert malicious code into data queries and verbose logs, leading to XSS attacks. The issue can be exploited through the 'http://<HOST>/cacti/data_queries.php' endpoint.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cacti versions prior to 1.2.25 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing users to potential XSS attacks. It is crucial for users to identify and update vulnerable instances to mitigate risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with 'General Administration>Sites/Devices/Data' privileges can configure data query templates with malicious code, targeting users with specific permissions. By manipulating data query template paths, adversaries can execute stored XSS attacks through the device management page.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-39513 requires immediate action and long-term security practices to safeguard systems against malicious exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade Cacti to version 1.2.25 or later, which includes patches to mitigate the XSS vulnerability. For users unable to update immediately, manual filtering of HTML output is recommended to reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, restricting user privileges, and conducting regular security assessments are essential for enhancing the overall security posture of Cacti installations.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying software updates and security patches is critical for addressing known vulnerabilities and reducing the likelihood of successful cyber attacks.