CVE-2023-5118 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-5118 involves a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability found in Kofax Capture software, impacting version 11.0.0. The vulnerability was identified in the function for adding new annotations while editing document content.

Understanding CVE-2023-5118

This vulnerability is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue that occurs in the endpoint /sofer/DocumentService.asc/SaveAnnotation. Input data transmitted through the POST method in the parameters author and text are not properly sanitized and validated. This allows malicious JavaScript code injection.

What is CVE-2023-5118?

The vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts within the application, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and other malicious activities.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5118

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as medium severity with a CVSS base score of 5.4. While it requires user interaction for exploitation and has low privileges required, it could compromise confidentiality and integrity of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5118

The affected software version is 11.0.0 of Kofax Capture. The vulnerability affects the /sofer/DocumentService.asc/SaveAnnotation endpoint and allows for the injection of malicious JavaScript code through the author and text parameters.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability results from inadequate sanitization and validation of input data, enabling an attacker to store and trigger malicious scripts in the application.

Affected Systems and Versions

Kofax Capture version 11.0.0 is confirmed to be affected by this vulnerability. However, earlier versions may also be vulnerable, although this has not been confirmed.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted requests with malicious scripts in the author and text parameters, leading to stored cross-site scripting attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

For organizations using Kofax Capture software, it is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-5118.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to software versions above 11.1.x where the vulnerability has been removed.
Implement input validation and proper data sanitization methods in the application code.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Train developers and security teams on secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in the future.

Patching and Updates

Always keep software up to date with the latest security patches and updates provided by the vendor to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.