CVE-2024-32484 is a reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Ankitects Anki version 24.04, specifically within the Flask web server component that handles invalid URL paths. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of script-related HTML tags (CWE-80), allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code when a specially crafted flashcard is opened. This malicious flashcard can be shared by an attacker to unsuspecting users, who trigger the vulnerability by simply viewing the flashcard content. The execution of JavaScript can lead to an arbitrary file read on the victim's machine, potentially exposing sensitive local data. The vulnerability does not require authentication but does require user interaction (opening the malicious flashcard). The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.4 (high), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and a scope change with high confidentiality impact but no impact on integrity or availability. No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, and no known active exploitation has been reported. The flaw highlights a critical security gap in input validation and output encoding within the Anki application’s web server component, emphasizing the need for secure coding practices in handling user-generated content and URL paths.

For European organizations, especially educational institutions, training centers, and research groups that rely on Anki 24.04 for knowledge management and learning, this vulnerability poses a significant confidentiality risk. An attacker could distribute malicious flashcards via shared decks or public repositories, leading to arbitrary file reads on users’ systems, potentially exposing sensitive personal or organizational data. Since Anki is widely used in academic and professional environments, the breach of confidentiality could result in data leaks of intellectual property, personal information, or examination materials. The requirement for user interaction (opening the flashcard) limits mass exploitation but targeted attacks or social engineering could increase risk. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, but the confidentiality breach alone is critical. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as public awareness grows. Organizations using Anki should consider the risk in their threat models and restrict or monitor the sharing of flashcards from untrusted sources.

1. Immediately update Anki to a patched version once available from the vendor, as no patch currently exists. 2. Until a patch is released, restrict the import and use of flashcards from untrusted or unknown sources to minimize exposure. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening flashcards from unverified origins and encourage caution with shared decks. 4. Implement network-level controls to monitor and block suspicious traffic related to Anki’s Flask server, if feasible. 5. Use endpoint security solutions capable of detecting anomalous script execution or unauthorized file access triggered by Anki. 6. Consider sandboxing or running Anki in isolated environments to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 7. Monitor security advisories from Ankitects and related communities for updates and patches. 8. For organizations deploying Anki in managed environments, enforce application whitelisting and restrict user permissions to reduce potential damage from exploitation.