CVE-2023-23754:Open redirect and XSS vulnerability in Joomla! MFA selection screen due to lack of input validation.

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Description Preview

A vulnerability was identified in Joomla! versions 4.2.0 through 4.3.1 where improper input validation in the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) selection screen could allow attackers to perform open redirect attacks and cross-site scripting (XSS). This vulnerability could potentially be exploited to redirect users to malicious websites or execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser session.

Overview

This vulnerability (CVE-2023-23754) affects the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) selection screen in Joomla! versions 4.2.0 through 4.3.1. The issue stems from insufficient validation of user inputs, which allows attackers to inject malicious URLs or script code. The vulnerability combines two serious web application security issues: open redirect (CWE-601) which can be used for phishing attacks, and cross-site scripting (XSS) which can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, or other client-side attacks. The vulnerability requires user interaction to exploit but could have significant impact on affected systems.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, users should upgrade to Joomla! version 4.3.2 or later, which contains the security fix for this issue. If immediate upgrading is not possible, consider implementing the following temporary mitigations:

  1. Limit access to the MFA selection screen to trusted users only
  2. Implement additional web application firewall rules to filter potentially malicious inputs
  3. Monitor logs for suspicious activities related to the MFA functionality
  4. Consider disabling MFA temporarily if the risk is deemed high and upgrading is not immediately possible

References

  1. Joomla! Security Centre Advisory: https://developer.joomla.org/security-centre/899-20230501-core-open-redirects-and-xss-within-the-mfa-selection.html
  2. CWE-20: Improper Input Validation - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/20.html
  3. CWE-601: URL Redirection to Untrusted Site ('Open Redirect') - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/601.html
  4. Joomla! Downloads (for updated versions): https://downloads.joomla.org/

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.

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