CVE-2023-42452 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Discover how CVE-2023-42452 impacts Mastodon versions before 4.0.10, 4.2.8, and 4.2.0-rc2 allowing XSS attacks through the translation feature, and learn how to mitigate the risk.
Mastodon is a free, open-source social network server based on ActivityPub. In versions on the 4.x branch prior to versions 4.0.10, 4.2.8, and 4.2.0-rc2, under certain conditions, attackers can abuse the translation feature to bypass the server-side HTML sanitization, allowing unescaped HTML to execute in the browser. The impact is limited thanks to Mastodon's strict Content Security Policy, blocking inline scripts, etc. However, a CSP bypass or loophole could be exploited to execute malicious XSS. Furthermore, it requires user interaction, as this can only occur upon clicking the “Translate” button on a malicious post. Versions 4.0.10, 4.2.8, and 4.2.0-rc2 contain a patch for this issue.
Understanding CVE-2023-42452
Mastodon vulnerable to Stored XSS through the translation feature
What is CVE-2023-42452?
CVE-2023-42452 is a vulnerability found in Mastodon versions before 4.0.10, 4.2.8, and 4.2.0-rc2 that allows attackers to execute malicious XSS through the translation feature.
The Impact of CVE-2023-42452
The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass server-side HTML sanitization, potentially executing unescaped HTML in the browser, creating a risk of XSS attacks.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-42452
A detailed look at the vulnerability
Vulnerability Description
Attackers can exploit a loophole in the translation feature to execute malicious XSS code by bypassing server-side HTML sanitization.
Affected Systems and Versions
Mastodon versions prior to 4.0.10, 4.2.8, and 4.2.0-rc2 are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability requires user interaction, triggered by clicking the “Translate” button on a malicious post, allowing the execution of unescaped HTML.
Mitigation and Prevention
Effective ways to address CVE-2023-42452
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should update their Mastodon server to versions 4.0.10, 4.2.8, or 4.2.0-rc2 to apply the necessary patch and mitigate the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement strict Content Security Policies (CSP) to prevent XSS attacks and regularly update server software to the latest secure versions.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches promptly to ensure systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.