Cross-site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability in pfsense v2.5.2

What is CVE-2024-46538?

CVE-2024-46538 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the pfSense version 2.5.2, a widely used open-source firewall and router software. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML, creating a pathway for potential exploitation within a user's browser when interacting with the affected components. Organizations utilizing pfSense for network security may find this vulnerability particularly detrimental, as it could result in unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web content, or other malicious activities.

Technical Details

The vulnerability exists in the interfaces_groups_edit.php file, specifically through an insecure handling of the $pconfig variable, which can be manipulated through crafted payloads. By exploiting this flaw, an attacker can execute malicious scripts within the context of the user's session, leading to the potential theft of session cookies, user credentials, or other sensitive data.

Impact of the Vulnerability

1. Unauthorized Access: Attackers can bypass client-side security mechanisms, potentially gaining unauthorized access to user accounts and sensitive information through crafted payloads.

2. Remote Code Execution: If successfully exploited, the XSS vulnerability could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to perform actions on behalf of the user or manipulate application behavior.

3. Data Breach Risk: The exploitation of this vulnerability increases the risk of data breaches, as attackers can leverage the access gained to extract confidential data or perform other malicious activities within the compromised system.

News Articles

SC Media

CVE-2024-46538

We’re Not Saying “I told you so” – PSW #850

In the news: Pacific Rim, Linux on Windows for attackers, one of the worst cases of a former employee’s retaliation, Zery-Day FOMO, we predicted that, hacking for fun, working hard for no PoC, an LLM that discovers software vulnerabilities, absurd fines, long usernames and Okta, and paying a r...

2 months ago

CyberSecurityNews

CVE-2024-46538

PfSense Stored XSS Vulnerability Leads To RCE Attacks, PoC Published

A critical security vulnerability has been discovered in pfSense version 2.5.2, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems.

2 months ago

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