CVE-2020-15930: Cross-site Scripting in Joplin

joplin Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

07/05/2021
Yes i
Moderate
6.1

CVE-2020-15930: Cross-site Scripting in Joplin. Affects joplin versions >= 1.0.190, < 1.1.7. Fixed in 1.1.7. How to fix ↓

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Background

Joplin is an open-source note-taking and to-do application that allows users to create, organize, and synchronize their notes across multiple devices. It is available as a desktop application and supports various platforms. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-15930 is a Cross-site Scripting (XSS) issue in Joplin desktop. This vulnerability enables arbitrary code execution through a malicious HTML embed tag.

Vulnerability Detail

The XSS vulnerability in Joplin desktop poses a risk of arbitrary code execution. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious HTML embed tags into the application, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized code. This can result in various consequences, such as unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, or the injection of malicious scripts affecting other users of the application. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.1, indicating a moderate severity level.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.1.7

This is the first release that contains the fix.

npm install joplin@1.1.7

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Workaround

As a temporary workaround, users can disable the rendering of HTML content within Joplin desktop. This can be achieved by modifying the application settings or preferences to prevent the execution of potentially malicious HTML embed tags.

Conclusion

The XSS vulnerability in Joplin desktop (CVE-2020-15930) poses a moderate risk of arbitrary code execution. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update Joplin desktop to version 1.1.7 or later. Additionally, users can temporarily disable the rendering of HTML content within the application. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or the injection of malicious scripts.

Updating Joplin desktop to version 1.1.7 or later will mitigate the risk of this vulnerability. Additionally, disabling the rendering of HTML content within the application can serve as a temporary workaround.

At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits targeting this specific vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the recommended security updates to prevent potential exploitation.

Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely. Attackers can inject malicious HTML embed tags through various means, such as crafted web pages or malicious links, to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system.

Yes, the developers of Joplin have released version 1.1.7, which includes security fixes addressing this vulnerability. It is recommended to update to this version or later to ensure the security of the application.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for joplin.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.1.7

This is the first release that contains the fix.

npm install joplin@1.1.7

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