CVE-2023-44764 in Concrete
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
A Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Concrete CMS v.9.2.1 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via a crafted script to the SITE parameter from installation or in the Settings.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-44764 represents a critical cross site scripting flaw within Concrete CMS version 9.2.1 that exposes the platform to remote code execution risks. This vulnerability specifically targets the SITE parameter handling mechanism during both installation processes and subsequent settings modifications, creating a persistent attack vector that can be exploited by malicious actors to inject malicious scripts into the application's web interface. The flaw resides in the insufficient input validation and output sanitization routines that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before it is rendered back to users or stored within the application's configuration systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious script content and submits it through the vulnerable SITE parameter during installation procedures or while modifying system settings. Concrete CMS fails to implement proper context-aware output encoding mechanisms, allowing attacker-controlled data to be interpreted as executable JavaScript code within the browser context of authenticated users. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a classic cross site scripting weakness, where the application fails to sanitize user inputs properly before incorporating them into dynamically generated web content. The attack can be executed through various vectors including direct parameter manipulation, session hijacking, or by leveraging the vulnerability in conjunction with other attack techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-44764 extends beyond simple script injection, as successful exploitation can lead to complete administrative compromise of the Concrete CMS instance. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code in the context of the victim's browser, potentially stealing session cookies, modifying website content, redirecting users to malicious sites, or even installing backdoors within the CMS environment. The vulnerability affects both the installation phase and ongoing configuration management, meaning that any user with access to these administrative functions can potentially become a vector for attack. This creates a significant risk for organizations that rely on Concrete CMS for their content management needs, as the attack surface remains active throughout the application lifecycle.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-44764 should prioritize immediate patching of the Concrete CMS platform to version 9.2.2 or later, which includes the necessary input validation and output encoding fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures that enforce strict parameter validation for all user-supplied data, particularly focusing on the SITE parameter handling within installation and settings modules. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers and proper output encoding mechanisms can provide additional defense in depth layers. Security teams should also conduct thorough penetration testing and code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application's parameter handling routines. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which involves social engineering through malicious web content, and T1059 which encompasses command and scripting interpreter usage, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls across multiple attack vectors.