libnmap XML Injection Denial of Service Vulnerability [CVE-2019-1010017]

CVE Number – CVE-2019-1010017

A vulnerability in libnmap could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct an XML injection attack on a targeted system. The vulnerability exists because the affected software does not properly handle user-supplied XML files. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to open an XML file that submits malicious input to the targeted system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to perform an XML injection attack, resulting in a DoS condition on the targeted system. Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available. The vendor has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.

Analysis

• To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker may use misleading language or instructions to persuade a user to open an XML file that submits malicious input to the system.

Safeguards

• Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
  
  Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.
  
  Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.
  
  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.

Vendor Announcements

• The vendor has released an issue report at the following link: Issue #87