CVE-2018-16718 : Security Advisory and Response

NCBI ToolBox versions 2.0.7 through 2.2.26 contain an XSS vulnerability in wwwblast.c.

Understanding CVE-2018-16718

This CVE involves a security flaw in the NCBI ToolBox versions 2.0.7 through 2.2.26 that allows for XSS attacks.

What is CVE-2018-16718?

An XSS vulnerability exists in wwwblast.c in the 2.0.7 through 2.2.26 legacy versions of the NCBI ToolBox via a crafted -z1 argument.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16718

Attackers can exploit the -z1 argument in wwwblast.c to create an XSS vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16718

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in wwwblast.c allows malicious actors to manipulate the -z1 argument, leading to an XSS vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

NCBI ToolBox versions 2.0.7 through 2.2.26

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate the -z1 argument in wwwblast.c to execute XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to a patched version of the NCBI ToolBox to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement input validation to prevent malicious input.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to address security flaws.
Conduct security audits to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by NCBI for the ToolBox to fix the XSS vulnerability.