CVE-2023-5863 Scanner

phpMyFAQ is an open-source FAQ management system used globally by organizations for managing frequently asked questions efficiently. It provides a robust platform where admins and content creators can manage FAQs seamlessly across different categories. The software is utilized in various sectors including education, technology, and customer service to facilitate easy access to information. With an intuitive interface, it caters to both technical and non-technical users. Its flexibility allows for the integration of multiple languages, making it a choice for internationally recognized companies. PHP, MySQL, and other technologies power phpMyFAQ to deliver optimum performance and scalability, ensuring user satisfaction and engagement.

The vulnerability identified as Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in phpMyFAQ can potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser session. This vulnerability arises when web applications allow users to include custom scripts or HTML without proper validation, leading to security breaches. XSS breaches can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of user data. Malicious scripts run in user sessions can lead to unauthorized actions, data disclosure, and access to sensitive information. The impact of such vulnerabilities is significant in applications handling financial, personal, or sensitive data. Addressing XSS vulnerabilities is crucial to maintaining user trust and safeguarding the application's operational integrity.

The technical details of the identified vulnerability involve flawed input handling in the GitHub repository thorsten/phpmyfaq prior to version 3.2.2. Specifically, the 'action' parameter within the 'index.php' endpoint of the admin interface is improperly sanitized, allowing the injection of malicious scripts. This particular endpoint failed to validate user input rigorously, creating an entry point for reflected XSS attacks. The exploitation method commonly employed involves crafting a URL containing embedded JavaScript, which, when accessed, executes within the user's browser under the site's context. This vulnerability permits attackers to hijack sessions, alter page content, or redirect users furtively. The flaw is an embodiment of inadequate security protocols concerning input validation and output encoding.

Exploitation of this Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in phpMyFAQ can lead to severe ramifications, including unauthorized access to sensitive user information and fraudulent manipulations of page content. Attackers may harness this flaw to perform phishing attacks by redirecting users to malicious sites masquerading as legitimate ones. There is also a risk of data theft through interception of user credentials or session hijacking, where attackers gain control of a user's active session. Additionally, the malicious scripts run could modify site configurations or inject misleading content, resulting in reputational damage and loss of user trust. Business operations reliant on the integrity of information provided by phpMyFAQ could incur substantial losses if exploited. Therefore, regular audits and prompt application of security patches are essential.

REFERENCES

• https://huntr.com/bounties/fbfd4e84-61fb-4063-8f11-15877b8c1f6f
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-5863