CVE-2018-19289: Valine - HTML Injection Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2018-19289: Valine HTML Injection. Affects valine versions < 1.3.4. Fixed in 1.3.4. How to fix ↓
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Background
Valine is an npm package that provides a lightweight, fast, and efficient comment system for websites. It allows users to add comments to web pages and supports various features such as Markdown, Gravatar, and email notifications. However, Valine version 1.3.3 is vulnerable to HTML injection, which can lead to JavaScript execution when combined with an EMBED element and a .pdf file.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Valine version 1.3.3 arises from insufficient input sanitization, allowing an attacker to inject arbitrary HTML code into the comment section. By leveraging this vulnerability, an attacker can execute malicious JavaScript code on the victim's browser. This can lead to various consequences, such as stealing sensitive information, performing unauthorized actions on behalf of the user, or spreading malware.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 1.5.3 as of 23 Oct 2026
npm install valine@1.5.3Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.3.4
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install valine@1.3.4Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, developers can implement input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent the injection of malicious HTML code. This can be achieved by using libraries or frameworks that offer built-in protection against HTML injection, such as DOMPurify. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can help mitigate the impact of this vulnerability by restricting the execution of injected scripts.
Conclusion
The Valine package version 1.3.3 is vulnerable to HTML injection, which can result in JavaScript execution on the victim's browser. To address this vulnerability, it is crucial to update Valine to a version that includes the necessary security patches. Additionally, implementing input validation, sanitization, and Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can help mitigate the risk. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for valine →
FAQ
Valine is an npm package that provides a comment system for websites, allowing users to add comments to web pages.
HTML injection is a type of vulnerability where an attacker can inject arbitrary HTML code into a web page, potentially leading to various security risks.
The vulnerability in Valine allows an attacker to inject HTML code into the comment section, which can be exploited for JavaScript execution when combined with an EMBED element and a .pdf file.
The consequences of this vulnerability include the ability for an attacker to execute malicious JavaScript code on the victim's browser, potentially leading to data theft, unauthorized actions, or the spread of malware.
To mitigate the risk, it is recommended to upgrade Valine to a patched version, implement input validation and sanitization mechanisms, and consider using Content Security Policy (CSP) headers.
References
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