CVE-2019-10905 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-10905, a vulnerability in Parsedown before version 1.7.2 that allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this security risk.
Parsedown before version 1.7.2 is vulnerable when safe mode is enabled and HTML markup is disabled, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code. This issue arises due to a specific class execution vulnerability.
Understanding CVE-2019-10905
Parsedown before version 1.7.2 is susceptible to a security vulnerability that could lead to the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code.
What is CVE-2019-10905?
Before version 1.7.2 of Parsedown, a vulnerability exists when safe mode is enabled and HTML markup is disabled. Attackers could execute arbitrary JavaScript code if a script on the affected page runs the contents of an element with a specific class.
The Impact of CVE-2019-10905
This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially execute arbitrary JavaScript code, compromising the security and integrity of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-10905
Parsedown version 1.7.2 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The allowance of spaces in code block infostrings disrupts the intended behavior of a single class name starting with the "language-" substring, leading to the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Parsedown versions before 1.7.2
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability when safe mode is enabled and HTML markup is disabled, allowing them to execute arbitrary JavaScript code.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2019-10905.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Parsedown to version 1.7.2 or later to address this vulnerability.
- Disable safe mode and enable HTML markup to reduce the risk of arbitrary code execution.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
- Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential security weaknesses.
- Educate developers and users about secure coding practices and the importance of software security.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Parsedown is regularly updated to the latest version to apply security patches and protect against known vulnerabilities.