CVE-2017-5858: User Impersonation in converse.js
Summary
CVE-2017-5858: User Impersonation in converse.js. Affects converse.js across 2 version ranges.
< 1.0.7
>= 2.0.0, < 2.0.5
Fixed in 1.0.7 or 2.0.5, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
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Background
converse.js is an open-source JavaScript library that provides a chat interface for web applications. It allows users to communicate via XMPP (Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol) and provides various features for real-time messaging. However, versions prior to 1.0.7 for 1.x or 2.0.5 for 2.x are vulnerable to User Impersonation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in converse.js arises from an incorrect implementation of XEP-0280: Message Carbons, an XMPP extension. This flaw allows a remote attacker to impersonate any user, including contacts, in the affected application's display. As a result, the attacker can perform social engineering attacks and manipulate users into taking malicious actions.
How To Fix
Fixed versions by release line
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 1.0.71.0.7npm install converse.js@1.0.7 -
>= 2.0.0, < 2.0.52.0.5npm install converse.js@2.0.5
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Conclusion
The vulnerability in converse.js allows for user impersonation, which can lead to social engineering attacks and manipulation of users. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to upgrade to the patched versions (1.0.7 or later for 1.x, and 2.0.5 or later for 2.x). For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for converse.js →
FAQ
converse.js is an open-source JavaScript library that provides a chat interface for web applications, enabling real-time messaging via XMPP.
XEP-0280 is an XMPP extension that allows message synchronization across multiple devices. It ensures that messages sent or received on one device are also delivered to other connected devices.
The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to impersonate any user in the application's display, including contacts. This can lead to social engineering attacks and manipulation of users into performing malicious actions.
No, only versions prior to 1.0.7 for 1.x and 2.0.5 for 2.x are vulnerable. It is recommended to upgrade to the patched versions to mitigate the risk.
No, upgrading to the patched versions is the recommended solution. There are no known workarounds to address this vulnerability.
