Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability in Python Django - CVE-2015-2317
Summary
CVE-2015-2317: The utils.http.is_safe_url function in Django before 1.4.20, 1.5.x, 1.6.x before 1.6.11, 1.7.x before 1.7.7, and 1.8.x before 1.8c1 does not properly validate URLs, which allows remote attackers to conduct cross-site scr... Affects python-django versions < 1.7.7-1. Fixed in 1.7.7-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
Python Django is a high-level web framework that encourages rapid development and clean, pragmatic design. It provides a robust set of features for building web applications, including an ORM, authentication, and an admin interface. However, certain versions of Django prior to 1.4.20, 1.5.x, 1.6.x before 1.6.11, 1.7.x before 1.7.7, and 1.8.x before 1.8c1 are vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack due to improper URL validation in the utils.http.is_safe_url function.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the inability of the utils.http.is_safe_url function in Django to properly validate URLs. This flaw allows remote attackers to conduct XSS attacks by injecting control characters into URLs, such as a \x08javascript: URL. If exploited, this could lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of users, potentially compromising sensitive information and application integrity.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.7.7-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade python-djangoTip — 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 to sanitize URLs before processing them. This can help mitigate the risk of XSS attacks while you plan for a proper upgrade.
Conclusion
CVE-2015-2317 represents a significant security risk for applications using vulnerable versions of Django. It is crucial to upgrade to a patched version to protect against potential XSS attacks. Regular monitoring and vulnerability management practices, such as using tools like Vulert, can help maintain application security.
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FAQ
CVE-2015-2317 is a vulnerability in Django that allows for cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks due to improper URL validation.
Django versions before 1.4.20, 1.5.x, 1.6.x before 1.6.11, 1.7.x before 1.7.7, and 1.8.x before 1.8c1 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By using the Vulert playground, you can check if your application is affected without any signup.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session, leading to data theft, session hijacking, or unauthorized actions.
Yes, implementing input validation to sanitize URLs can help mitigate the risk of XSS attacks until an upgrade can be performed.
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