CVE-2020-10544: Cross-site Scripting in PrimeFaces
Summary
CVE-2020-10544: Cross-site Scripting in PrimeFaces. Affects primefaces versions < 8.0. Fixed in 8.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
PrimeFaces is a popular open-source UI component library for JavaServer Faces (JSF) applications. It provides a wide range of components and features to enhance the user interface of web applications. PrimeFaces is widely used in enterprise applications due to its rich set of features and ease of integration with JSF frameworks. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in PrimeFaces version 7.0.11 that allows for cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability exists in the tooltip/tooltip.js file of PrimeFaces. When a web application using PrimeFaces displays a tooltip, it uses an input field's data as the tooltip title without proper input validation. This allows an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code into the tooltip title, which will be executed when the tooltip is displayed to the user. This XSS vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to steal sensitive information, perform actions on behalf of the user, or deface the affected web application.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
8.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install primefaces@8.0Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading to a fixed version of PrimeFaces is not immediately possible, developers can implement input validation and sanitization measures to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks. This can be done by using appropriate input validation libraries or frameworks, such as OWASP Java Encoder, to sanitize user input before using it in tooltip titles. It is important to thoroughly test the application after implementing these measures to ensure they are effective in preventing XSS attacks.
Conclusion
The XSS vulnerability in PrimeFaces version 7.0.11 can allow attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into tooltip titles, leading to potential security breaches and compromised user accounts. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to a fixed version of PrimeFaces (version 8.0 or later) and implement proper input validation and sanitization measures. Developers should also stay updated on security advisories and best practices to ensure the security of their applications.
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FAQ
PrimeFaces is an open-source UI component library for JavaServer Faces (JSF) applications. It provides a wide range of components and features to enhance the user interface of web applications.
Cross-site scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to the theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions, or defacement of the affected web application.
The XSS vulnerability in PrimeFaces occurs when an input field's data is used as a tooltip title without proper input validation. An attacker can inject malicious JavaScript code into the tooltip title, which will be executed when the tooltip is displayed to the user.
The XSS vulnerability in PrimeFaces can allow an attacker to steal sensitive information, perform actions on behalf of the user, or deface the affected web application. This can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, and compromised user accounts.
The XSS vulnerability in PrimeFaces can be mitigated by upgrading to a fixed version of PrimeFaces (version 8.0 or later) and implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures. It is important to sanitize and validate all user input before using it in any context, including tooltip titles.
References
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