Microsoft warns of cross-site scripting error

Microsoft is warning users following the discovery of a flaw which could leave its SharePoint platform at risk.

The company said that the SharePoint Server 2007 and SharePoint Services 3.0 components were vulnerable to a cross site scripting attack. Microsoft said that there have not yet been any reports of attacks targeting the vulnerability.

If targeted, Microsoft warns that the vulnerability could allow an attacker to access the SharePoint site with elevated privileges.

Administrators are being advised to apply an access control list to the SharePoint Help.aspx file to prevent unauthorised users from having access to the vulnerable components. Applying the measure will, however, disable the help function for all users on the affected SharePoint site.

The company noted that the cross-site scripting protections in Internet Explorer 8 could also help to prevent an attack.

Microsoft said that it is developing and fix and is currently planning to release the patch next month with its May security update.