CVE-2023-53882
Reflected XSS in JLex GuestBook 1.6.4 Enables Session Hijacking
Publication date: 2025-12-15
Last updated on: 2025-12-15
Assigner: VulnCheck
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
| Probability: | |
| Percentile: |
Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| jlexart | jlex_guestbook | 1.6.4 |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-79 | The product does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes user-controllable input before it is placed in output that is used as a web page that is served to other users. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
CVE-2023-53882 is a reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in JLex GuestBook version 1.6.4. It occurs in the 'q' URL parameter, which does not properly sanitize user input. Attackers can craft malicious URLs containing JavaScript payloads that, when clicked by victims, execute arbitrary scripts in their browsers. This allows attackers to perform actions such as stealing session tokens or executing other malicious code within the victim's browser session. [1, 2]
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
This vulnerability can impact you by allowing attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in your browser when you click on a maliciously crafted link. This can lead to theft of session tokens or login credentials, potentially compromising your account or session security. Since the attack requires user interaction (clicking the malicious link), it can be exploited remotely without any privileges or authentication. [1, 2]
How can this vulnerability be detected on my network or system? Can you suggest some commands?
This vulnerability can be detected by testing the 'q' URL parameter of the JLex GuestBook 1.6.4 application for reflected cross-site scripting. You can craft a URL with a payload such as `db8ck"onfocus="confirm(1)"autofocus="xwu0k` and observe if the script executes in the browser. For example, you can use curl or a browser to send a request like: `curl 'http://targetsite/u/perry-705?q=db8ck"onfocus="confirm(1)"autofocus="xwu0k'` and check if the response reflects the payload unsanitized. Additionally, using web vulnerability scanners that test for reflected XSS on URL parameters can help detect this issue. [1, 2]
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
Immediate mitigation steps include sanitizing and validating the 'q' URL parameter input to prevent injection of malicious scripts. Applying input filtering or encoding output to neutralize scripts is essential. If a patch or update is available from JLexArt for GuestBook 1.6.4, apply it promptly. Additionally, consider implementing web application firewall (WAF) rules to block suspicious payloads targeting the 'q' parameter. Educate users to avoid clicking on suspicious links until the vulnerability is addressed. [1, 2]