CVE-2020-13965 : What You Need to Know

An issue was discovered in Roundcube Webmail before 1.3.12 and 1.4.x before 1.4.5. There is XSS via a malicious XML attachment because text/xml is among the allowed types for a preview.

Understanding CVE-2020-13965

This CVE pertains to a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in specific versions of Roundcube Webmail.

What is CVE-2020-13965?

CVE-2020-13965 is a security vulnerability identified in Roundcube Webmail versions prior to 1.3.12 and 1.4.5. It allows for XSS attacks through a malicious XML attachment due to the inclusion of text/xml as an allowed type for preview.

The Impact of CVE-2020-13965

The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's webmail session, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-13965

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Roundcube Webmail versions before 1.3.12 and 1.4.5 enables XSS attacks through a crafted XML attachment, leveraging the text/xml type for preview.

Affected Systems and Versions

Roundcube Webmail versions before 1.3.12
Roundcube Webmail versions before 1.4.5

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted XML attachment to a user's webmail account, triggering the execution of malicious scripts when the attachment is previewed.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-13965 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Roundcube Webmail to version 1.3.12 or 1.4.5, where the vulnerability has been patched.
Avoid previewing XML attachments from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and web applications to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe email practices and the risks associated with opening attachments from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Roundcube Webmail to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks through malicious XML attachments.