Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability in Spring MVC (CVE-2013-6430)
Summary
CVE-2013-6430: The JavaScriptUtils.javaScriptEscape method in web/util/JavaScriptUtils.java in Spring MVC in Spring Framework before 3.2.2 does not properly escape certain characters, which allows remote attackers to conduct cross-site... Affects libspring-java versions < 3.0.6.RELEASE-11. Fixed in 3.0.6.RELEASE-11. How to fix ↓
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Background
Spring MVC is a powerful framework for building web applications in Java. It provides a comprehensive programming and configuration model for modern Java-based enterprise applications. However, prior to version 3.2.2, it contained a vulnerability in the JavaScriptUtils.javaScriptEscape method that failed to properly escape certain characters, making it susceptible to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the JavaScriptUtils.javaScriptEscape method in Spring MVC, which does not adequately escape specific Unicode characters, including line separators, paragraph separators, and angle brackets. This oversight allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users, potentially leading to data theft, session hijacking, or other malicious activities. The vulnerability affects multiple Debian package versions of libspring-java, making it a significant concern for applications relying on this framework.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
3.0.6.RELEASE-11
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libspring-javaTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If an immediate upgrade is not feasible, consider implementing input validation and output encoding in your application to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks. Ensure that user inputs are sanitized and that any data rendered in the browser is properly encoded.
Conclusion
CVE-2013-6430 represents a significant security risk for applications using Spring MVC prior to version 3.2.2. It is crucial to upgrade to the fixed version to protect against potential XSS attacks. Additionally, implementing input validation and output encoding can serve as effective temporary measures.
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FAQ
CVE-2013-6430 is a vulnerability in the Spring MVC framework that allows for cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks due to improper character escaping.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and other malicious activities if exploited by attackers.
Yes, you can implement input validation and output encoding to reduce the risk of XSS attacks until you can upgrade.
The CVSS score for CVE-2013-6430 is 5.4, indicating a moderate severity level.
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