CVE-2024-21637 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE involves a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Authentik via JavaScript-URI as Redirect URI and form_post Response Mode.

Understanding CVE-2024-21637

This vulnerability affects Authentik, an open-source Identity Provider, allowing for reflected Cross-Site Scripting attacks via JavaScript-URIs in OpenID Connect flows utilizing

response_mode=form_post

. This could potentially lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2024-21637?

The CVE-2024-21637 vulnerability in Authentik enables attackers to execute XSS attacks through specially crafted JavaScript-URIs, posing a threat to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.

The Impact of CVE-2024-21637

With a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.7 (High Severity), the impact of CVE-2024-21637 is significant. The attack complexity is high, requiring user interaction, and affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2024-21637

This section dives into the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Authentik allows for the execution of reflected Cross-Site Scripting attacks through JavaScript-URIs, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is Authentik, specifically versions <= 2023.10.5 and <= 2023.8.5. Users running these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious JavaScript-URIs within OpenID Connect flows using

response_mode=form_post

, enabling them to execute XSS attacks and potentially escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2024-21637, immediate actions need to be taken to secure the system and prevent any potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is crucial to update Authentik to patched versions 2023.10.6 and 2023.8.6 to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks and privilege escalation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enhancing security practices, such as input validation and output encoding, can help prevent XSS vulnerabilities in the long term. Regular security audits and training can also improve the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating software and applying security patches is essential to address known vulnerabilities and protect systems from potential exploits. Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply recommended patches to secure the system.