CVE-2021-22528 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-22528, a Reflected Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting NetIQ Access Manager versions prior to 5.0.1 and 4.5.4.

Understanding CVE-2021-22528

CVE-2021-22528 is a high-severity vulnerability impacting NetIQ Access Manager, allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session.

What is CVE-2021-22528?

The vulnerability involves a reflected Cross Site Scripting (XSS) issue in NetIQ Access Manager versions before 5.0.1 and 4.5.4, potentially leading to information leakage.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22528

With a CVSS base score of 8.0, this vulnerability poses a high risk, enabling attackers to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22528

The technical details reveal that the vulnerability has a low attack complexity, requires user interaction, and can result in high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for the execution of arbitrary scripts within the session of an authenticated user, leading to potential data exposure and manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

NetIQ Access Manager versions prior to 5.0.1 and 4.5.4 are affected by this XSS vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of timely updates and patches.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by tricking a user into clicking on a specially crafted link containing malicious scripts, leading to unauthorized script execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

It's crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-22528 and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to install or upgrade to NetIQ Access Manager 5.0.1 or 4.5.4 as a workaround to address the XSS vulnerability and enhance system security.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to immediate updates, organizations should enforce secure coding practices, conduct regular security audits, and educate users on identifying and avoiding phishing attempts.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security patches and updates released by Micro Focus for NetIQ Access Manager to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.