CVE-2023-46235 : What You Need to Know

FOG stored XSS on log screen via unsanitized request logging.

Understanding CVE-2023-46235

FOGProject's fogproject is an open-source suite used for cloning, imaging, rescue, and inventory management. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-46235, allows for the injection of malicious XSS payloads into log files due to inadequate request sanitization, leading to potential cross-site scripting attacks.

What is CVE-2023-46235?

The CVE-2023-46235 vulnerability in FOGProject's fogproject software, versions prior to 1.5.10.15, enables threat actors to execute XSS attacks by manipulating unsanitized request logging, exploiting the lack of input validation, and subsequently storing malicious scripts in log files. When administrators access and view these logs via the dashboard, the injected code gets executed, posing a severe security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-46235

The impact of CVE-2023-46235 is categorized as MEDIUM with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 5.4. While the attack complexity is low and no privileges are required, the vulnerability's exploit necessitates user interaction. The confidentiality and integrity impacts are low, but the potential for XSS attacks poses significant risks, emphasizing the urgency of mitigation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-46235

In this section, we delve into the specifics of the vulnerability associated with CVE-2023-46235.

Vulnerability Description

FOGProject's fogproject, versions below 1.5.10.15, fail to sanitize user requests, permitting the storage of XSS payloads within log files. The lack of input validation enables attackers to embed malicious scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized script execution within the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impact of CVE-2023-46235 is observed in all versions of FOGProject's fogproject software that are below 1.5.10.15. Users operating on these vulnerable versions are susceptible to exploitation and compromise.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-46235 involves injecting malicious XSS payloads into log files through unsanitized request logging. When an authorized user examines these logs via the dashboard, the embedded scripts execute within an HTML context, paving the way for cross-site scripting attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing and securing systems against CVE-2023-46235 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-46235, users should update their fogproject installations to version 1.5.10.15 or later. Additionally, administrators are advised to refrain from viewing logs through the dashboard and opt for external text editors as a temporary workaround.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should prioritize robust input validation, implement strict sanitization procedures for user requests, and regularly update their fogproject installations to the latest secure versions.

Patching and Updates

Maintaining up-to-date software versions via regular patching and updates is crucial to fortifying defenses against evolving security threats, including vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-46235.