CVE-2020-11888 : Security Advisory and Response

Python-markdown2 through version 2.3.8 is vulnerable to XSS attacks due to mishandling of element names, potentially allowing malicious code execution.

Understanding CVE-2020-11888

This CVE involves a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in python-markdown2.

What is CVE-2020-11888?

Python-markdown2 through 2.3.8 allows XSS because element names are mishandled unless a \w+ match succeeds. An attacker could exploit this by using specific element names with certain attributes.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11888

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to execute malicious scripts on a user's browser, leading to potential data theft, unauthorized actions, or further compromise of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11888

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in python-markdown2 arises from the mishandling of element names, allowing attackers to inject malicious code into web pages.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: python-markdown2 through 2.3.8

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using specific element names like elementname@ or elementname- with an onclick attribute to execute malicious scripts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-11888 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update python-markdown2 to a non-vulnerable version.
Implement input validation to sanitize user inputs and prevent XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the software vendor to address the XSS vulnerability in python-markdown2.