RabbitMQ is a multi-protocol messaging broker. In rabbitmq-server prior to version 3.8.18, when a federation link was displayed in the RabbitMQ management UI via the `rabbitmq_federation_management` plugin, its consumer tag was rendered without proper <script> tag sanitization. This potentially allows for JavaScript code execution in the context of the page. The user must be signed in and have elevated permissions (manage federation upstreams and policies) for this to occur. The vulnerability is patched in RabbitMQ 3.8.18. As a workaround, disable the `rabbitmq_federation_management` plugin and use CLI tools instead.
The severity level of this vulnerability is classified as low, with a CVSS score of 3.1. This score indicates a low risk of exploitation, yet the potential for JavaScript execution means that organizations should remain vigilant, especially those with elevated permissions in their RabbitMQ deployments.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data if the vulnerability is exploited. While the exploitability is considered low, the presence of this vulnerability in a production environment could lead to data integrity issues or service disruptions.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The vulnerability has been addressed in version 3.8.18 of RabbitMQ, and it is crucial to update to this version or later to mitigate any risks associated with the vulnerability.
The official CVE description states that this vulnerability allows for potential JavaScript code execution due to improper handling of consumer tags in the RabbitMQ management UI. The vulnerability affects RabbitMQ versions prior to 3.8.18, and it is classified under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')) and CWE-80 (Improper Neutralization of Script-Related HTML Tags in a Web Page).
According to the metrics provided, the CVSS score varies between 3.1 and 4.8, depending on the assessment source. The NVD classifies it as medium severity with a score of 4.8, highlighting the need for attention. The vulnerability was published on June 28, 2021, and has since been modified with updated information.
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the lack of sanitization of user-controlled input in the RabbitMQ management UI. Specifically, the consumer tag displayed in the federation management interface allows for the injection of JavaScript code if proper input validation and sanitization controls are not applied.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring the attacker to have access to the management UI. The attack complexity is classified as high, meaning that an attacker would need to possess elevated privileges (manage federation upstreams and policies) to exploit the vulnerability. User interaction is required as the user must be signed in.
Regarding impacts, the vulnerability has low confidentiality and integrity impact, with no availability impact reported. Organizations should ensure that all appropriate security controls are in place to prevent exploitation.
In real-world deployments, the risk associated with this vulnerability can lead to significant impacts, especially in environments where RabbitMQ is integrated into critical applications. If exploited, attackers may leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary JavaScript code, potentially leading to unauthorized actions within the application context.
The blast radius of this vulnerability extends to all users with elevated permissions who interact with the RabbitMQ management UI. Given that user interaction is required for exploitation, the risk profile changes based on user behavior and awareness.
Urgency assessment based on the CVSS score indicates that organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. While the exploitation likelihood may be low, the potential for impact cannot be overlooked.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
All versions of RabbitMQ prior to 3.8.18 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations using earlier versions should plan to upgrade to version 3.8.18 or later to mitigate the risks associated with this issue.
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should update to RabbitMQ version 3.8.18 or later. If immediate patching is not possible, disabling the `rabbitmq_federation_management` plugin can serve as a temporary workaround. Additionally, utilizing CLI tools instead of the management UI is recommended until the patch can be applied.
Organizations should also consider conducting a thorough security assessment to ensure that all configurations are secure and that all user permissions are appropriately managed.
Application security assessments can help identify any further vulnerabilities in the application infrastructure.
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns in the RabbitMQ management UI. Indicators of compromise may include unauthorized attempts to access federation management features or unexpected changes to consumer tags.
Behavioral anomalies in user interactions with the management UI, such as access from unfamiliar IP addresses or unusual times, should also be flagged for further investigation.
The long-term significance of this vulnerability highlights the need for stringent input validation and sanitization in web applications. It serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with inadequate security measures in user-facing interfaces.
This vulnerability represents a trend in web application security where even minor oversights can lead to significant security risks. Security teams should prioritize training and awareness around secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Organizations can benefit from understanding the implications of such vulnerabilities and the importance of proactive security measures. To learn more about effective security strategies, refer to the following resources:
Penetration testing methodology can be an invaluable resource for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in applications.
Vulnerability management programs are essential for organizations to continuously monitor and improve their security posture.
API penetration testing is crucial for ensuring that all interfaces are secure against potential exploitation.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)