A vulnerability in the web-based management interface of Cisco BroadWorks Application Delivery Platform could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct a cross-site scripting attack against a user of the interface. This vulnerability exists because the web-based management interface does not properly validate user-supplied input. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user of the interface to click a crafted link. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary script code in the context of the affected interface or access sensitive, browser-based information.
With a CVSS score of 6.1, this vulnerability is classified as medium severity. Organizations should recognize the potential risk this poses, particularly regarding user interactions that could lead to exploitation. Given its medium severity, addressing this vulnerability should be prioritized in the patch cycle.
Currently, there is no confirmed public exploit available for this vulnerability, and it is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, the lack of known exploits does not diminish the importance of remediation, as attackers may still leverage this vulnerability if discovered.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of this vulnerability indicates that it is a cross-site scripting (XSS) issue, categorized under CWE-79. The CVSS 3.1 vector string for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N, indicating that it can be exploited over the network with low complexity and does not require privileges. User interaction is required, meaning that the attacker needs to trick a user into clicking a malicious link.
The vulnerability was published on February 19, 2025, and is currently marked as deferred. Organizations utilizing the Cisco BroadWorks Application Delivery Platform should remain vigilant and monitor for updates regarding this vulnerability.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the failure to properly validate user-supplied input in the web-based management interface. This oversight allows an attacker to craft a malicious link that, when clicked by a user, can execute arbitrary script code in their browser. The attack vector is classified as network-based, and the complexity of the attack is low; it requires no special privileges but does necessitate user interaction.
The confidentiality and integrity impacts are both rated as low, indicating that while the potential for data exposure exists, it may not be extensive. There is no availability impact associated with this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations face a real-world risk regarding this vulnerability due to the potential for cross-site scripting attacks. If exploited, the attacker could execute scripts in the user’s context, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information. The blast radius could be significant if multiple users are compromised by clicking the malicious link.
Given the CVSS score of 6.1, this vulnerability should be addressed in the priority patch cycle. Organizations should also consider user training and awareness programs to reduce the risk of users falling victim to phishing attempts that exploit this vulnerability.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Cisco has provided guidance on updating the affected systems. For more details, refer to the official Cisco advisory.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for unusual behaviors and potential exploitation attempts. Look for any signs of unauthorized access or script execution in the context of user sessions.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability lies in its potential to expose sensitive information through social engineering tactics. Organizations should implement robust security awareness training to mitigate risks associated with user interaction vulnerabilities.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation in web applications. Security teams are encouraged to integrate regular security training and review coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
To further enhance security posture, organizations should consider engaging in comprehensive security assessments such as application security assessments and regular penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities proactively.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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