CVE-2020-5298 : Security Advisory and Response

In OctoberCMS (october/october composer package) versions from 1.0.319 and before 1.0.466, a user with the ability to use the import functionality of the

ImportExportController

behavior can be socially engineered by an attacker to upload a maliciously crafted CSV file, leading to a reflected XSS attack.

Understanding CVE-2020-5298

This CVE involves a reflected XSS vulnerability in OctoberCMS when importing CSV files.

What is CVE-2020-5298?

CVE-2020-5298 is a security vulnerability in OctoberCMS versions between 1.0.319 and 1.0.466 that allows an attacker to execute a reflected XSS attack by manipulating CSV file imports.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5298

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to upload a specially crafted CSV file, potentially leading to a reflected XSS attack on targeted users.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5298

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of alternate XSS syntax in the

ImportExportController

behavior of OctoberCMS.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: October
Vendor: OctoberCMS
Versions Affected: >= 1.0.319, < 1.0.466

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
CVSS Base Score: 4 (Medium)
CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:H/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5298 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update OctoberCMS to Build 466 (v1.0.466) to apply the necessary patch.
Educate users about the risks of importing files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update security patches for OctoberCMS.
Implement input validation mechanisms to prevent malicious file uploads.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks in OctoberCMS.