CVE-2021-32683 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-32683, a cross-site scripting vulnerability in wire-webapp that allows attackers to execute malicious code and gain control over user accounts. Find out about the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-32683, a cross-site scripting vulnerability in wire-webapp that allows attackers to execute malicious code and take control of user accounts.
Understanding CVE-2021-32683
This section covers what CVE-2021-32683 is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.
What is CVE-2021-32683?
The CVE-2021-32683 vulnerability is a cross-site scripting flaw in wire-webapp, the web version of Wire, an open-source messenger. Attackers can execute malicious code by tricking users into opening image URLs, leading to a full compromise of user accounts.
The Impact of CVE-2021-32683
The vulnerability has a base score of 8.8 (High) on the CVSSv3.1 scale, with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. An attacker can exploit this issue via a network connection with no user privileges required.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-32683
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, affected systems, and how exploitation can occur.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in wire-webapp versions prior to 2021-06-01-production.0, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code via image payloads.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected product is wire-webapp by wireapp, with versions before 2021-06-01-production.0 being vulnerable to the exploit.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can execute the exploit by instructing users to open image URLs, enabling the execution of malicious code on the hosting domain (app.wire.com) and granting full control over user accounts.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, we discuss immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised not to open image URLs as a workaround to mitigate the vulnerability until the application is patched.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about security updates are crucial for long-term security.
Patching and Updates
It is essential to update wire-webapp to version 2021-06-01-production.0 or later to remediate the vulnerability and protect user accounts.