An issue was discovered in Optimizely EPiServer.CMS.Core before 12.32.0. A high-severity vulnerability exists in the CMS due to insufficient enforcement of password complexity requirements. The application permits users to set passwords with a minimum length of 6 characters, lacking adequate complexity to resist modern attack techniques such as password spraying or offline password cracking.
The severity of this vulnerability is assessed as high, with a CVSS score of 7.5. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access due to the weak password policy, making it easier for attackers to compromise user accounts.
As of the last update, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, organizations should prioritize addressing this issue to fortify their security posture.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Vulnerability Details
An issue was discovered in Optimizely EPiServer.CMS.Core before 12.32.0. A medium-severity vulnerability exists in the CMS due to insufficient enforcement of password complexity requirements. The application permits users to set passwords with a minimum length of 6 characters, lacking adequate complexity to resist modern attack techniques such as password spraying or offline password cracking.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.5, classified as high severity. It is crucial for organizations to understand the potential risks associated with weak password policies.
The affected product is Optimizely CMS, with the vulnerability affecting all versions prior to 12.32.0. The vulnerability was published on January 4, 2025.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the application’s insufficient enforcement of password complexity requirements. The attack vector is network-based, allowing attackers to exploit this weakness remotely.
The attack complexity is low, as there are no special conditions required for exploitation. Additionally, attackers do not require privileges to exploit this vulnerability, and user interaction is not needed.
The confidentiality impact is rated as high, meaning an attacker could potentially access sensitive information. However, there are no integrity or availability impacts associated with this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk is significant due to the widespread use of the affected CMS. Organizations utilizing Optimizely CMS are at risk of unauthorized access if the password complexity issue is not addressed.
The blast radius potential is considerable, as attackers could compromise multiple accounts within an organization, leading to further exploitation of sensitive data.
With a CVSS score of 7.5, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions include all versions of Optimizely CMS prior to 12.32.0. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest version to mitigate this risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should promptly update to the latest version of Optimizely CMS (version 12.32.0 or later). If immediate updating is not feasible, organizations should enforce stronger password policies that require a minimum length greater than 6 characters and include complexity requirements.
Organizations should validate remediation through penetration testing to ensure the effectiveness of the applied security measures.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor for unusual login attempts, especially those that may indicate password spraying attempts. Logging failed authentication attempts and analyzing patterns can help identify potential attacks.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of enforcing strong password policies within applications. Organizations should take proactive measures to mitigate password-related risks by implementing comprehensive password management solutions.
As part of an overall security strategy, regular audits and assessments can identify weaknesses before they are exploited. Consider leveraging resources on vulnerability management programs to enhance security posture.
For organizations using cloud services, ensuring compliance with security standards can help mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities like this one. Engaging in cloud penetration testing may further uncover additional weaknesses.
Finally, organizations should stay informed about common vulnerabilities and risks by regularly reviewing security publications and advisories, which can offer insights into emerging threats and best practices.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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