Security researchers have discovered a critical Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Axiell Iguana CMS (Content Management System), which has been assigned the CVE-2022-45050 identifier. This vulnerability allows a malicious attacker to execute code in the victim's browser by manipulating user input in the title parameter on the twitter.php endpoint. This post will provide an in-depth analysis of the CVE-2022-45050 vulnerability, including code snippets, links to original references, and exploit details.

What is Reflected XSS?
Reflected XSS is a type of vulnerability that occurs when an attacker injects malicious scripts through a vulnerable web application that reflects the input back to the user. The injected script is sent to the victim's browser, and the code is executed, causing harm to the user's system and potentially allowing the attacker to steal sensitive information or perform actions on behalf of the victim.

The Vulnerability

CVE-2022-45050 affects the Axiell Iguana CMS's title parameter, specifically in the twitter.php endpoint. The program does not properly neutralise or sanitize user input, which allows an attacker to input executable code successfully. When a victim clicks on a malicious link constructed by the attacker, the script embedded in the URL gets executed in the victim's browser, compromising their security.

The following code snippet demonstrates how the vulnerability can be exploited

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
    <title>CVE-2022-45050 Exploit Example</title>
</head>
<body>
    <h1>Reflected XSS in Axiell Iguana CMS</h1>
    <p>Click the link below to trigger the exploit:</p>
    <a href="http://victim-site.com/twitter.php?title=<script>alert('XSS!');</script>">Exploit Link</a>
</body>
</html>

In this example, the malicious script <script>alert('XSS!');</script> is embedded in the URL. When a victim clicks the "Exploit Link," the alert('XSS!') script is executed, and a messagebox pops up with "XSS!" as the displayed message. This simple script is only an example; attackers can use more complex code to perform additional nefarious activities.

Original References and Exploit Details

The National Vulnerability Database (NVD) provides a detailed description of CVE-2022-45050 and its potential impacts. You can read the full report here: CVE-2022-45050 NVD Entry

According to the NVD, the vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.1 (Medium). The score is a result of the following metrics:

Mitigation and Recommendations

Axiell Iguana CMS users should immediately update to the latest version of the software to address the vulnerability. Additionally, users are advised to:

Ensure proper account management practices, limiting privileges for users and applications.

- Train users to be cautious when clicking links or opening attachments, especially from unfamiliar sources.

Conclusion

The discovery of the CVE-2022-45050 Reflected XSS vulnerability in Axiell Iguana CMS highlights the importance of continuously monitoring and updating software for security patches. Although this vulnerability requires user interaction to exploit, attackers can leverage social engineering tactics to increase the chances of a successful attack. By staying informed of new vulnerabilities and applying security best practices, organizations can minimize their vulnerability and protect their users from potential harm.

Timeline

Published on: 12/01/2022 09:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 01/09/2023 17:12:00 UTC