CVE-2023-2014 in microweber
Summary
by MITRE • 04/13/2023
Cross-site Scripting (XSS) - Generic in GitHub repository microweber/microweber prior to 1.3.3.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2025
This cross-site scripting vulnerability exists in the microweber content management system prior to version 1.3.3, representing a critical security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's generic processing functions, particularly affecting how user-supplied data is handled during rendering operations. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of a victim's browser session, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the user. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws where untrusted data is improperly incorporated into web pages without proper sanitization or encoding. The attack vector typically involves injecting malicious payloads through form inputs, URL parameters, or API endpoints that do not properly validate or escape user-provided content before rendering it on web pages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks within the context of the ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access patterns, create backdoors, or escalate privileges within the application environment. The generic nature of the flaw suggests that multiple input points within the microweber framework may be susceptible to exploitation, making it particularly dangerous as it could affect various components including user profiles, content management interfaces, and administrative functions. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data compromise and potential system takeover, especially when the application handles sensitive user information or operates with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching to version 1.3.3 or later, which should include comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms. The remediation should implement proper context-aware escaping of user data before rendering, utilize Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and establish robust input sanitization routines. Security teams should also conduct thorough penetration testing to identify any additional injection points that may have been overlooked in the initial vulnerability assessment. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious script injection patterns can provide additional defense layers. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security scanning tools to continuously monitor for similar vulnerabilities across their web applications and ensure proper security hardening practices are maintained throughout the software development lifecycle. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of following secure coding practices and maintaining up-to-date security patches as recommended by industry standards including OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.