Piranha CMS 12.0 Vulnerable to Stored XSS in Text Block Module
Security researchers disclose a stored XSS flaw in Piranha CMS 12.0's Text Block module, enabling arbitrary JavaScript execution via crafted input.
Stored XSS Vulnerability Discovered in Piranha CMS 12.0
Security researchers have identified a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Piranha CMS 12.0, specifically within the Text Block module. The flaw, tracked under Exploit-DB ID 52471, allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code through maliciously crafted input.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization in the Text Block module of Piranha CMS 12.0. Attackers with access to the CMS backend can embed malicious scripts in text fields, which are then stored and rendered in the web application. When other users—such as administrators or content editors—view the compromised page, the injected JavaScript executes in their browser context, potentially leading to:
- Session hijacking
- Account takeover
- Data exfiltration
- Defacement of web content
The exploit requires no user interaction beyond viewing the affected page, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users manage content.
Impact Analysis
Stored XSS vulnerabilities like this pose a significant risk to web applications, as they enable persistent attacks that can affect all users interacting with the compromised content. In the case of Piranha CMS, which is widely used for content management, the flaw could be exploited to:
- Compromise administrative accounts
- Distribute malware to site visitors
- Manipulate or steal sensitive data
- Disrupt website functionality
Recommendations
Organizations using Piranha CMS 12.0 are urged to:
- Apply patches immediately once the vendor releases an update addressing the vulnerability.
- Restrict backend access to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface.
- Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to detect and block XSS payloads.
- Monitor for suspicious activity, such as unexpected script execution or unauthorized content changes.
- Educate content editors on recognizing and reporting potential XSS attacks.
For security teams, reviewing the Exploit-DB entry (ID 52471) provides additional technical insights into the proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit. No CVE ID has been assigned to this vulnerability at the time of disclosure.
Original disclosure: Exploit-DB #52471