CVE-2023-49489 Scanner

KodExplorer is a popular web-based file management system used by developers and organizations for document management. It offers a variety of features including file browsing, uploading, downloading, and editing directly from a web interface. Used widely in environments needing a simplified document handling and user-friendly file operations, KodExplorer provides robust capabilities akin to a desktop file editor. Its consistent updates and community support make it a preferred choice for handling sensitive organizational files globally. KodExplorer is typically deployed on servers where remote file management and shared access are essential. Its adaptability across different platforms and the ability to serve various organizational needs demonstrate its widespread utility and relevance.

The Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability detected in KodExplorer 4.51 allows attackers to execute unauthorized scripts in a user's browser. Through specific input manipulation, threat actors can leverage this vulnerability to gain sensitive information or perform actions on behalf of users, compromising both data and privacy. It particularly affects the APP_HOST parameter at config/i18n/en/main.php, enabling malicious scripts to execute in unsuspecting users’ browsers. XSS vulnerabilities pose significant security threats as they allow attackers to bypass access controls typically enforced on web applications. This vulnerability's exploitation requires validation of user input or malformed requests, leading to unauthorized script execution. The impact can be extensive, affecting all active sessions within the affected scope.

The vulnerability lies in improper validation and sanitization of inputs in the APP_HOST parameter, allowing crafted scripts to infiltrate and execute. A crafted script such as `<ScRiPt>alert(document.domain)</ScRiPt>` can be injected via user-controllable fields, leading to the execution of arbitrary scripts. The entry point for this manipulation is typically through specific HTTP requests targeting endpoints vulnerable to XSS. This vulnerability is particularly reflective in nature, meaning it requires the victim to click on a crafted URL. Successful execution of the exploit results from insufficient encoding mechanisms, which fail to neutralize script tags. The HTTP response carrying the manipulated script is rendered in the user's browser, allowing these unauthorized actions.

When exploited, the XSS vulnerability can lead to several adverse effects, including theft of session cookies, redirection to malicious sites, or unauthorized actions on behalf of a user. Attackers can impersonate users by hijacking their sessions, leading to the potential compromise of additional data and unauthorized access to sensitive endpoints. This vulnerability increases the risk of information leakage and can facilitate further attacks such as phishing. Attackers can manipulate and control what users see or do on a legitimate site, gravely impacting user trust and application integrity. The overall impact can extend to include reputation damage, compliance violations, and financial costs arising from data breach declarative measures and remediation processes.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/kalcaddle/KodExplorer/issues/526