CVE-2021-41169:Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Sulu CMS tag names

splash
Back

Description Preview

CVE-2021-41169 affects Sulu, an open-source PHP content management system based on the Symfony framework. In versions prior to 1.6.43, HTML input in tag names is not properly sanitized, allowing stored cross-site scripting attacks. While only admin users can create tags, this vulnerability could potentially be exploited to execute malicious scripts in users' browsers.

Overview

This vulnerability exists in the tag management functionality of Sulu CMS where tag names containing HTML are not properly sanitized before being stored and displayed. When these malicious tags are rendered in the browser, the embedded scripts execute in the context of the viewing user, potentially allowing attackers to steal session information, cookies, or perform actions on behalf of the victim. Although the attack surface is limited since only admin users can create tags, the impact could be significant if exploited, as it could affect other admin users or be part of a more complex attack chain.

Remediation

Users should upgrade to Sulu version 1.6.43 or later, which contains the fix for this vulnerability. The patch implements proper HTML sanitization for tag names to prevent stored XSS attacks. If immediate upgrading is not possible, administrators should be cautious when creating tags and avoid using any HTML or special characters in tag names. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can provide an additional layer of protection against XSS attacks.

References

  1. Patch commit: https://github.com/sulu/sulu/commit/20007ac70a3af3c9e53a6acb0ef8794b65642445
  2. GitHub Security Advisory: https://github.com/sulu/sulu/security/advisories/GHSA-h58v-g3q6-q9fx
  3. NVD Entry: CVE-2021-41169

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

Let's talk!

background