CVE-2023-43356 in CMS Made Simple
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
Cross Site Scripting vulnerability in CMSmadesimple v.2.2.18 allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code via a crafted script to the Global Meatadata parameter in the Global Settings Menu component.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2026
This cross site scripting vulnerability exists within CMSmadesimple version 2.2.18 and represents a critical security flaw that enables local attackers to execute arbitrary code through manipulation of the Global Metadata parameter within the Global Settings Menu component. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter malicious scripts before processing user-supplied data. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious payloads into the Global Metadata field, which then gets executed in the context of the victim's browser session, potentially allowing full system compromise. The flaw specifically affects the global settings management functionality where metadata parameters are processed without adequate security controls to prevent script injection attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws occurring when untrusted data is incorporated into web pages without proper validation or encoding. This weakness enables attackers to inject malicious scripts that can manipulate web page content, steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or execute unauthorized commands on the target system. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the local privilege level, meaning that an attacker with access to the CMSmadesimple administrative interface can leverage this vulnerability to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary code. The Global Settings Menu component serves as the attack surface where the insecure parameter handling occurs, making it a critical point of failure in the application's security architecture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify website content, steal sensitive administrative credentials, install backdoors, or manipulate database records through the CMSmadesimple platform. The local attacker requirement means that the vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have administrative access or where privilege escalation opportunities exist within the CMSmadesimple framework. Organizations relying on this version of CMSmadesimple face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential service disruption. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access through malicious script injection, potentially allowing long-term compromise of the affected systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch application to CMSmadesimple version 2.2.19 or later, which includes the necessary security fixes to address the input validation flaws. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures including proper HTML encoding, parameter validation, and output filtering to prevent script injection attacks. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting local access to administrative functions. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious parameter values in global settings menus, while regular security audits should verify proper implementation of input validation controls. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future. The remediation process should include thorough testing to ensure that patches do not introduce regressions in existing functionality while maintaining the security improvements necessary to protect against this specific cross site scripting vulnerability.