CVE-2020-15870 in Nexus Repository Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Sonatype Nexus Repository Manager OSS/Pro versions before 3.25.1 allow XSS (Issue 2 of 2).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-15870 represents a cross-site scripting flaw within Sonatype Nexus Repository Manager OSS and Pro editions prior to version 3.25.1. This security weakness specifically affects the repository management system's handling of user input in certain contexts, creating opportunities for malicious actors to inject client-side scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability manifests as a reflected XSS attack vector that could be exploited through improperly sanitized input fields or parameters within the web interface.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the Nexus Repository Manager's insufficient validation and sanitization of user-supplied data within its web application components. When users interact with the repository manager's web interface, particularly when navigating to specific endpoints or submitting data through forms, the application fails to adequately escape or encode special characters that could be interpreted as HTML or JavaScript code. This allows an attacker to craft malicious payloads that, when executed by a victim's browser, can perform unauthorized actions on behalf of the user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive repository data and administrative functions. An attacker could leverage this XSS vulnerability to steal session cookies, perform actions within the repository manager as authenticated users, or redirect victims to malicious sites. The implications are particularly concerning for organizations relying on Nexus Repository Manager for critical software artifact storage and management, as successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to proprietary code, dependency packages, and sensitive configuration data.
Security professionals should note this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in software applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique under T1059.007, specifically targeting web applications through client-side code injection methods. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching to version 3.25.1 or later, as this update includes proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms that prevent malicious script execution. Additionally, implementing proper web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities in the future.
The broader implications for software supply chain security are significant, as compromised repository managers can serve as entry points for more extensive attacks. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their Nexus installations and review access controls to minimize potential exploitation risks. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be enforced across all repository management systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in operational environments.