CVE-2019-20139 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability has been identified in Nagios XI version 5.6.9, allowing attackers to exploit certain parameters and potentially target admin users.

Understanding CVE-2019-20139

This CVE involves an XSS vulnerability in Nagios XI version 5.6.9 that can be exploited by authenticated users.

What is CVE-2019-20139?

This CVE refers to a security flaw in Nagios XI 5.6.9 that enables XSS attacks through specific parameters in certain PHP files, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20139

The vulnerability allows attackers with authorized access to execute XSS attacks, posing a risk to the security of admin users and potentially compromising the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20139

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in Nagios XI 5.6.9 can be triggered through parameters like host, hostgroup, servicegroup in nocscreenapi.php, and hour or frequency parameter in schedulereport.php.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: Nagios XI 5.6.9
Systems: Nagios XI installations running version 5.6.9

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating specific parameters in the mentioned PHP files, allowing them to execute XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-20139 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Nagios XI to a patched version that addresses the XSS vulnerability.
Monitor user activities and restrict access to critical parameters.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe practices to prevent XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Nagios to fix the XSS vulnerability.