CVE-2021-27578: Cross-site Scripting in Apache Zeppelin
Summary
CVE-2021-27578: Cross-site Scripting in Apache Zeppelin. Affects org.apache.zeppelin:zeppelin versions < 0.9.0. Fixed in 0.9.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Apache Zeppelin is an open-source web-based notebook that enables interactive data analytics and collaborative data science. It provides a platform for data exploration, visualization, and sharing through a web interface. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-27578 is a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the markdown interpreter of Apache Zeppelin. This vulnerability allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into the application, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities. The vulnerability affects Apache Zeppelin versions prior to 0.9.0.
Vulnerability Detail
The Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Apache Zeppelin's markdown interpreter arises due to inadequate input sanitization. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts into the application, which are then executed in the context of the victim's browser. This can lead to various consequences, including session hijacking, defacement of web pages, theft of sensitive information, or even complete compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.1, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 0.12.1 as of 22 Oct 2026
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
0.9.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
If upgrading to the latest version is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to implement proper input validation and sanitization for user-generated content. This involves filtering and escaping potentially malicious characters and HTML tags to prevent script injection. Developers can refer to secure coding practices and OWASP guidelines for guidance on implementing input validation and output encoding techniques.
Conclusion
The Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Apache Zeppelin can be mitigated by upgrading to version 0.9.0 or later. It is crucial to promptly address this vulnerability to prevent potential unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.zeppelin:zeppelin →
FAQ
Apache Zeppelin is an open-source web-based notebook that facilitates interactive data analytics and collaborative data science. It provides a platform for data exploration, visualization, and sharing through a web interface.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web applications. These scripts are then executed in the context of the victim's browser, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities.
The Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Apache Zeppelin can have various consequences, including session hijacking, defacement of web pages, theft of sensitive information, or even complete compromise of the affected system.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.1, indicating a moderate severity level.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade Apache Zeppelin to version 0.9.0 or later. This version includes the necessary patches and improvements to mitigate the Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability.
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