On January 15, 2025, a medium-severity vulnerability was reported in the Mohsin Rasool Twitter Bootstrap Collapse plugin, also known as the Accordian Shortcode. This vulnerability allows for improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically leading to a DOM-Based Cross-site Scripting (XSS) issue. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a significant risk that organizations need to address.
The vulnerability affects versions of the Twitter Bootstrap Collapse plugin up to and including 1.0. This means that any site utilizing this plugin could potentially be at risk of XSS attacks, which could allow attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the user's session.
Given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations using this plugin should take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. The fact that the vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79 indicates that it involves XSS, a common vulnerability that can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information or actions being performed on behalf of the user.
As of now, there are no known exploits available, and the vulnerability is classified as deferred. However, organizations should prioritize patching or updating the affected systems to prevent any future exploitation, as the attack vector is network-based with low complexity and requires user interaction.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability in question is an improper neutralization of input during web page generation that allows for DOM-Based XSS. Its CVSS score of 6.5 classifies it as medium severity, which necessitates prompt attention from affected organizations. The vulnerability affects the Twitter Bootstrap Collapse plugin, specifically versions from n/a through 1.0. Published on January 15, 2025, this vulnerability falls under CWE-79.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of the vulnerability lies in the improper handling of user input, specifically regarding the generation of web pages within the plugin. The attack vector is categorized as network-based, indicating that the vulnerability can be exploited over the network. The complexity of the attack is low, requiring only minimal technical skills to execute. Privileges required for exploitation are low, and user interaction is necessary, as the attack typically involves tricking the user into clicking a malicious link.
In terms of impact, the vulnerability has a confidentiality impact classified as low, as it may allow attackers to gain access to user session data. The integrity impact is also low, as it pertains to unauthorized modifications of the content displayed to the user. Similarly, the availability impact is low, as it does not disrupt the service.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with this vulnerability is significant, as it can lead to unauthorized actions performed by users on vulnerable web applications. Organizations using the affected plugin should recognize the importance of addressing this vulnerability to avoid potential exploitation that can lead to data theft or loss of user trust.
With a CVSS score of 6.5, it is crucial for organizations to assess the urgency of remediation. The fact that this vulnerability is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) database means it has not yet been identified as actively exploited. However, the low exploitability score suggests that while there are no known exploits, the potential for exploitation exists.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the Twitter Bootstrap Collapse plugin are all versions prior to vendor patch, specifically from n/a through 1.0. Organizations using these versions should take immediate steps to update their installations.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. They should upgrade to the latest version of the Twitter Bootstrap Collapse plugin to address this vulnerability. In cases where patches are not yet available, implementing input validation and sanitization on user inputs can serve as a temporary workaround.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor log files for unusual behavior, such as unexpected JavaScript execution or unauthorized changes in the page content. Additionally, monitoring user session activity for anomalies can help identify potential attacks.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices, particularly regarding input validation. Organizations should regularly review their plugins and libraries for known vulnerabilities. Implementing a robust vulnerability management program can significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Continuous education on security best practices for developers is also essential.
Additionally, organizations should consider employing penetration testing to proactively identify vulnerabilities within their applications.
Overall, maintaining an up-to-date inventory of software components and conducting regular security assessments will contribute to a stronger security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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