CVE-2023-6551 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2023-6551, a critical stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw in class.upload.php library, its impact, mitigation, and preventive measures.
This CVE-2023-6551 pertains to a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in class.upload.php.
Understanding CVE-2023-6551
This CVE relates to a vulnerability found in the class.upload.php library that can lead to stored XSS attacks.
What is CVE-2023-6551?
The vulnerability in class.upload.php arises due to a lack of thorough checking on uploaded files, enabling a stored XSS vulnerability when the default configuration is utilized. To mitigate this issue, developers are advised to implement extension whitelisting and ensure that the server consistently provides content-type based on the file extension.
The Impact of CVE-2023-6551
The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it allows attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of the web application, potentially leading to data theft, unauthorized actions, and other security breaches. The CAPEC-592 and CAPEC-209 attack patterns are associated with this vulnerability.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-6551
This section delves into the specific technical aspects of CVE-2023-6551.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in class.upload.php is categorized under CWE-20 - Improper Input Validation. It stems from the library's failure to conduct thorough checks on uploaded files, making it susceptible to stored XSS attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
The impacted product is class.upload.php, with version 0 being affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of this vulnerability involves uploading malicious files that contain scripts, which can be executed within the application, leading to XSS attacks.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to undertake immediate steps to address and prevent the CVE-2023-6551 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
Developers and system administrators should implement extension whitelisting and ensure that servers consistently provide content-type based on file extensions to mitigate the stored XSS risk associated with class.upload.php.
Long-Term Security Practices
In the long term, it is advisable to follow secure coding practices, conduct regular security audits, and stay informed about security best practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that you stay up to date with patches and updates provided by the library maintainers to address security vulnerabilities like the one identified in CVE-2023-6551.