CVE-2017-12620 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2017-12620 was published on October 2, 2017, affecting Apache OpenNLP versions 1.5.0 to 1.5.3, 1.6.0, 1.7.0 to 1.7.2, and 1.8.0 to 1.8.1. The vulnerability allows for an XXE (XML External Entity) attack when loading models or dictionaries containing XML.

Understanding CVE-2017-12620

This CVE impacts Apache OpenNLP, a library used for loading models or dictionaries, making applications vulnerable to XXE attacks.

What is CVE-2017-12620?

Applications that load models or dictionaries containing XML may be susceptible to an XXE attack, specifically affecting Apache OpenNLP.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12620

This vulnerability poses a risk of information disclosure for applications that fetch models or dictionaries from untrusted sources.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12620

Apache OpenNLP versions 1.5.0 to 1.5.3, 1.6.0, 1.7.0 to 1.7.2, and 1.8.0 to 1.8.1 are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows malicious entities to exploit XXE attacks by manipulating XML content in models or dictionaries loaded by Apache OpenNLP.

Affected Systems and Versions

Apache OpenNLP 1.5.0 to 1.5.3
Apache OpenNLP 1.6.0
Apache OpenNLP 1.7.0 to 1.7.2
Apache OpenNLP 1.8.0 to 1.8.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage the XXE vulnerability by injecting malicious XML entities into models or dictionaries loaded by vulnerable versions of Apache OpenNLP.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-12620, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache OpenNLP to a patched version.
Avoid loading models or dictionaries from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories related to Apache OpenNLP.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent XXE vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Apache OpenNLP promptly to mitigate the risk of XXE attacks.