CVE-2013-5823: Apache XML Security For Java vulnerable to Infinite Loop

org.apache.santuario:xmlsec Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/05/2022
Yes i
Moderate
Not published

CVE-2013-5823: Apache XML Security For Java vulnerable to Infinite Loop. Affects org.apache.santuario:xmlsec across 2 version ranges.

>= 1.4.0, < 1.4.8 >= 1.5.0, < 1.5.3

Fixed in 1.4.8 or 1.5.3, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

Apache XML Security For Java (xmlsec) is a library used for securing XML messages by providing digital signatures, encryption, and other security features. It is commonly used in Java applications to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of XML data. However, certain versions of xmlsec are susceptible to a denial of service vulnerability.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in xmlsec arises when checking the signature of a message larger than 512 MB. In such cases, the method expandSize(int newPos) of the org.apache.xml.security.utils.UnsyncByteArrayOutputStream class enters an endless loop. This flaw can be exploited by a remote attacker who supplies crafted XML, leading to a denial of service. The impact of this vulnerability is the unavailability of the affected service, potentially disrupting the normal operation of the application.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • >= 1.4.0, < 1.4.8 1.4.8
  • >= 1.5.0, < 1.5.3 1.5.3

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the recommended fix by upgrading the xmlsec library to a non-vulnerable version.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in Apache XML Security For Java can lead to a denial of service if a remote attacker supplies crafted XML to check the signature of a large message. To mitigate this issue, it is crucial to upgrade the xmlsec library to a fixed version. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.santuario:xmlsec →

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FAQ

Apache XML Security For Java (xmlsec) is a library used for securing XML messages by providing digital signatures, encryption, and other security features in Java applications.

The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker to cause a denial of service, resulting in the unavailability of the affected service and potential disruption of the application's normal operation.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade the xmlsec library to a non-vulnerable version. For versions 1.4.0 to 1.4.8, upgrade to version 1.4.8 or later. For versions 1.5.0 to 1.5.3, upgrade to version 1.5.3 or later.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is necessary to apply the recommended fix by upgrading the xmlsec library.

For more information about this vulnerability, you can refer to the CVE-2013-5823 advisory or the GitHub advisory database.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for org.apache.santuario:xmlsec.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • >= 1.4.0, < 1.4.8 1.4.8
  • >= 1.5.0, < 1.5.3 1.5.3

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

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