CVE-2017-16785 : What You Need to Know

Cacti 1.1.27 has a vulnerability that enables reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks through the PATH_INFO feature in the host.php file.

Understanding CVE-2017-16785

This CVE entry discloses a security issue in Cacti version 1.1.27.

What is CVE-2017-16785?

The vulnerability in Cacti 1.1.27 allows attackers to execute reflected XSS attacks by exploiting the PATH_INFO functionality in the host.php file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16785

This vulnerability could lead to malicious actors injecting and executing arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's web browser, potentially compromising sensitive data or performing unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16785

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Cacti 1.1.27 permits the execution of reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks via the PATH_INFO mechanism in the host.php file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: Cacti 1.1.27
Vendor: N/A
Product: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the PATH_INFO feature in the host.php file to inject and execute malicious scripts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16785 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Cacti to a patched version that addresses the XSS vulnerability.
Implement input validation mechanisms to sanitize user-supplied data.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit web application code for security vulnerabilities.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent XSS and other common web application attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Cacti to mitigate the XSS vulnerability.