CVE-2023-3521 Scanner

FOSSBilling is a widely used, open-source system that allows organizations to handle billing processes efficiently. Its target users typically include small to medium-sized enterprises that require robust billing solutions without the overhead of proprietary software. The system is flexible and allows developers to extend functionality via plugins and custom code. By offering a comprehensive platform, FOSSBilling assists companies in managing subscriptions, invoices, and client communications. FOSSBilling's adaptability ensures it can be used in various industries, ranging from technology to services. As an open-source project, its codebase is open to enhancements and scrutiny by a dedicated community.

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a critical vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages. When exploited, it can lead to unauthorized actions on behalf of users, often without their knowledge. This vulnerability typically occurs when user input is not properly sanitized and is reflected back on web pages. The consequences of XSS attacks can include session hijacking, defacement, and redirection to malicious websites. Being one of the most common web-based vulnerabilities, XSS exploitation can severely compromise the security of affected platforms. Developers are urged to validate and sanitize inputs to mitigate such vulnerabilities.

The vulnerability found in FOSSBilling versions prior to 0.5.4 allows attackers to inject scripts via URL parameters. Specifically, the vulnerable endpoints include admin page inputs that do not adequately process special characters. Considerable risk lies in these unsanitized inputs being executed as code within the user's browser session. Exploiting this XSS vulnerability involves crafting malicious URLs that trick users into clicking, which in turn allows the scripts to run undetected. This issue is particularly potent in environments where end-users have administrative privileges. The offending code can swiftly compromise personal information and undermine user trust.

When this XSS vulnerability is exploited, malicious actors can execute scripts within the context of the victim's browser session. The potential effects include unauthorized access to sensitive information such as cookies and session tokens. Moreover, attackers may alter the appearance of the website, misleading users by displaying unexpected content. Such attacks can also redirect users to phishing sites to gather credentials or other sensitive information. The integrity and confidentiality of user data are therefore at considerable risk. The exploitation might also result in unauthorized purchases or changes to user profiles, depending on the permissions level of the compromised session.

REFERENCES

• https://huntr.com/bounties/76a3441d-7f75-4a8d-a7a0-95a7f5456eb0
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-3521