Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability in php5
Summary
DLA-1251-1: php5 - security update. Affects php5 versions < 5.4.45-0+deb7u12. Fixed in 5.4.45-0+deb7u12. How to fix ↓
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Background
PHP5 is a popular scripting language used for web development. It provides a wide range of functionality and is commonly used to create dynamic web pages. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in PHP5 that allows for reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks on the PHAR 404 error page. This vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating the URI of a request for a .phar file. It is important to note that this vulnerability is only exploitable if the web server is configured to handle phar files using PHP5.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in PHP5 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of a victim's browser. By manipulating the URI of a request for a .phar file, an attacker can inject malicious code into the PHAR 404 error page. When a victim visits this page, the injected code will be executed, potentially leading to various attacks such as session hijacking, data theft, or defacement of the website. This vulnerability can be particularly dangerous if the affected website handles sensitive user information or performs actions on behalf of authenticated users.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.4.45-0+deb7u12
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade php5Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading the php5 package is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the handling of phar files by PHP5 in the web server configuration. This can be achieved by removing or commenting out the relevant configuration directives related to phar files in the server's configuration file. However, it is important to note that this workaround may impact the functionality of applications that rely on the handling of phar files.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in PHP5 that allows for reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks on the PHAR 404 error page can have serious security implications for affected websites. It is crucial to upgrade the php5 package to the fixed version or apply the provided workaround to mitigate the risk of exploitation. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for php5 →
FAQ
A reflected XSS attack is a type of web vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious code into a website that is then executed by the victim's browser. The injected code is typically included in a URL or other input that is reflected back to the user.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the URI of a request for a .phar file. By injecting malicious code into the PHAR 404 error page, the attacker can trick victims into executing the code when they visit the page.
The consequences of this vulnerability can vary depending on the specific context in which it is exploited. However, potential consequences include session hijacking, data theft, defacement of the website, and the execution of arbitrary code in the victim's browser.
No, this vulnerability is specific to the php5 package and can affect any system where the web server is configured to handle phar files using PHP5. However, the fix provided in this advisory is applicable to the Debian 7 Wheezy distribution.
At the time of this advisory, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the recommended fix as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
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