CVE-2020-5227 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-5227, a vulnerability in Feedgen (python feedgen) before 0.9.0 allowing XML Denial of Service attacks. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Feedgen (python feedgen) before 0.9.0 is susceptible to XML Denial of Service attacks. The feedgen library allows supplying XML as content for some of the available fields. This XML will be parsed and integrated into the existing XML tree. During this process, feedgen is vulnerable to XML Denial of Service Attacks (e.g. XML Bomb). This becomes a concern if feedgen is used to include content from untrusted sources and if XML (including XHTML) is directly included instead of providing plain text content only. This problem has been fixed in feedgen 0.9.0 which disallows XML entity expansion and external resources.
Understanding CVE-2020-5227
Feedgen Vulnerable to XML Denial of Service Attacks
What is CVE-2020-5227?
CVE-2020-5227 is a vulnerability in the feedgen library in Python, allowing XML Denial of Service attacks before version 0.9.0.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5227
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 4.4, with a medium severity rating. It can lead to XML Denial of Service attacks, particularly when untrusted XML content is directly included.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5227
Feedgen Vulnerable to XML Denial of Service Attacks
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper handling of XML content, allowing for XML Denial of Service attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: python-feedgen
- Vendor: lkiesow
- Versions Affected: < 0.9.0
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by supplying malicious XML content to the feedgen library, causing XML Denial of Service attacks.
Mitigation and Prevention
Feedgen Vulnerable to XML Denial of Service Attacks
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to version 0.9.0 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid including XML content from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software libraries to the latest versions.
- Implement input validation to prevent malicious XML content.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly to address security vulnerabilities.