CVE-2023-31546 in DedeBIZ
Summary
by MITRE • 12/14/2023
Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in DedeBIZ v6.0.3 allows attackers to run arbitrary code via the search feature.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2023-31546 represents a critical cross site scripting flaw in DedeBIZ version 6.0.3 that specifically targets the search functionality of the content management system. This weakness allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of a victim's browser session, potentially leading to complete compromise of user interactions and data exposure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within the search parameter handling code, creating an attack surface where untrusted data enters the application without proper security filtering. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in CMS environments where administrators and users frequently interact with search features, making them prime targets for exploitation. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper data sanitization practices that are fundamental to preventing XSS attacks in web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the failure to properly escape or filter user-supplied input parameters when processing search queries. When users submit search terms through the DedeBIZ interface, the application fails to adequately sanitize these inputs before rendering them back to the browser. This creates an environment where malicious payloads can be injected and subsequently executed in the context of other users' sessions. The attack vector specifically leverages the search feature as an entry point, making it particularly insidious since search functionality is commonly used and trusted by end users. The vulnerability can be exploited through various XSS techniques including stored and reflected XSS variants, depending on how the application handles and persists the malicious input. This weakness directly maps to CWE-79 which defines Cross-Site Scripting as a common web application vulnerability where untrusted data is improperly handled and rendered without adequate security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-31546 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential data breaches, session hijacking, and privilege escalation attacks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or inject malicious scripts that persist across multiple user sessions. The implications are particularly severe for administrative users who may be targeted through this attack vector, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive content management functions. Organizations utilizing DedeBIZ v6.0.3 face significant risk of unauthorized data access, content manipulation, and potential regulatory compliance violations if this vulnerability remains unpatched. The attack surface is further expanded when considering that many CMS platforms store sensitive user information, making these systems attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit such weaknesses. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which describes social engineering attacks through malicious payloads, and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter techniques for code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-31546 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the search feature. Organizations should implement comprehensive sanitization of all user inputs, particularly those that are rendered back to users in web interfaces. The recommended approach includes implementing strict whitelisting of allowed characters and patterns, utilizing proper HTML encoding for all dynamic content, and implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution. Additionally, the application should enforce proper parameter validation before processing search queries and implement proper output encoding for all rendered content. Security patches should be applied immediately upon availability from the vendor, as this vulnerability directly impacts the core functionality of the content management system. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious search parameter patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on input validation practices are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other application components. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that all search functionality operates correctly while maintaining proper security controls, following established security frameworks such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.