CVE-2020-22789 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

FME Server versions 2019.2 and 2020.0 Beta are affected by an Unauthenticated Stored XSS vulnerability that allows remote attackers to gain admin privileges.

Understanding CVE-2020-22789

This CVE involves a security issue in FME Server versions 2019.2 and 2020.0 Beta that enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML to exploit the login page.

What is CVE-2020-22789?

The vulnerability in FME Server versions 2019.2 and 2020.0 Beta permits unauthenticated remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML via the login page, potentially leading to admin privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2020-22789

The exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to execute XSS attacks when an administrator accesses the logs, potentially compromising the server's security and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-22789

FME Server's Unauthenticated Stored XSS vulnerability has the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in FME Server versions 2019.2 and 2020.0 Beta allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the login page, leading to potential admin privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

FME Server versions 2019.2 and 2020.0 Beta

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers inject malicious web scripts or HTML via the login page
XSS is triggered when an administrator accesses the logs

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-22789, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update FME Server to the latest patched version
Implement strong input validation mechanisms
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive server logs

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly conduct security assessments and audits
Educate administrators on secure coding practices
Implement a web application firewall to detect and prevent XSS attacks

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Safe Software for FME Server