RosarioSIS 6.7.2 Vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Attack
Security researchers disclose a stored XSS vulnerability in RosarioSIS 6.7.2, enabling attackers to execute malicious scripts in user browsers. Patch immediately.
RosarioSIS 6.7.2 Affected by Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability
Security researchers have identified a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in RosarioSIS version 6.7.2, a widely used open-source student information system. The flaw, disclosed via Exploit Database, allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the browsers of unsuspecting users.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization in RosarioSIS, enabling attackers to embed malicious scripts in web application fields that store user-provided data. When other users access the compromised page, the script executes in their browser context, potentially leading to:
- Session hijacking (theft of authentication cookies)
- Credential theft via fake login prompts
- Defacement or redirection to malicious sites
- Further exploitation of browser-based vulnerabilities
The exploit does not require authentication, increasing the risk of widespread attacks. Security professionals should note that this is a stored (persistent) XSS flaw, meaning the payload remains embedded in the application until manually removed.
Impact Analysis
RosarioSIS is deployed in educational institutions globally to manage student records, attendance, and grading. A successful XSS attack could:
- Compromise sensitive student or staff data
- Disrupt school operations by altering or deleting records
- Serve as an entry point for broader network infiltration
The vulnerability’s low complexity and high impact make it a critical concern for administrators. Proof-of-concept (PoC) code is publicly available, lowering the barrier for exploitation.
Recommendations
- Immediate Patch Deployment: Upgrade to the latest version of RosarioSIS if a fix is available. Monitor the official repository for updates.
- Temporary Mitigations:
- Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to filter malicious payloads.
- Restrict write access to sensitive fields to trusted users only.
- Conduct a thorough audit of stored data for injected scripts.
- User Awareness: Train staff and students to recognize phishing attempts or suspicious links, as XSS often relies on social engineering.
Security teams should prioritize this vulnerability due to its potential for data exfiltration and lateral movement within institutional networks. Monitor logs for unusual activity, such as unexpected script execution or unauthorized access attempts.