CVE-2021-31712 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2021-31712, a vulnerability in react-draft-wysiwyg (React Draft Wysiwyg) before version 1.14.6 that allows a javascript: URI in a Link Target of the link decorator, potentially leading to XSS.

Understanding CVE-2021-31712

CVE-2021-31712 is a security vulnerability in react-draft-wysiwyg (React Draft Wysiwyg) that could be exploited to execute cross-site scripting attacks when a draft is shared across users.

What is CVE-2021-31712?

The vulnerability in react-draft-wysiwyg (React Draft Wysiwyg) before version 1.14.6 allows a javascript: URI in a Link Target of the link decorator, creating a potential XSS risk.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31712

Exploiting this vulnerability could enable attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session, leading to potential data theft or unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31712

CVE-2021-31712 affects specific versions of react-draft-wysiwyg (React Draft Wysiwyg) before version 1.14.6. The vulnerability lies in the way link decorators are handled within draft sharing scenarios.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the ability to include a javascript: URI in the Link Target of a link decorator, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of react-draft-wysiwyg (React Draft Wysiwyg) prior to 1.14.6 are affected by this vulnerability, potentially impacting users who share drafts across multiple users.

Exploitation Mechanism

By including a javascript: URI in the Link Target of the link decorator, threat actors can craft URLs that execute malicious scripts when interacted with, compromising user security.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-31712, immediate steps should be taken to address the vulnerability and secure affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update react-draft-wysiwyg to version 1.14.6 or later to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, caution should be exercised when sharing drafts containing links.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, input validation mechanisms, and regular security audits can help prevent XSS vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-31712.

Patching and Updates

Maintaining up-to-date software versions and promptly applying security patches issued by the software vendor is crucial to safeguarding systems against known vulnerabilities.