dom4j XML Injection Vulnerability [CVE-2018-1000632]
CVE Number – CVE-2018-1000632
A vulnerability in dom4j could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct an XML injection attack on a targeted system.
The vulnerability exists because the affected software improperly sanitizes elements and attribute names in XML documents. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to open an XML document that submits malicious input to the targeted system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to perform an XML injection attack, which the attacker could use to execute arbitrary code or access and modify sensitive information on the system.
Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.
dom4j has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
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To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have local access to the system or may use misleading language and instructions to persuade a targeted user to open an XML file that submits malicious input to the system.
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Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.
Users are advised not to open email messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in email messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.
Users are advised not to visit websites or follow links that have suspicious characteristics or cannot be verified as safe.
Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.
Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.
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dom4j has released an issue report at the following link: Issue #48
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dom4j has released a software update at the following link: dom4j 2.1.1
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.