CVE-2025-11059: xml2rfc Arbitrary File Read Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2025-11059: xml2rfc is vulnerable to arbitrary file reads through prepped files. Affects xml2rfc versions < 3.30.2. Fixed in 3.30.2. How to fix ↓
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Background
xml2rfc is a Python package used for generating RFC documents in various formats, including PDF. It allows users to create and manipulate RFCXML files, which are essential for the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) standards. However, the package has a vulnerability that can be exploited to read arbitrary files from the filesystem, posing a significant security risk.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises when generating PDF files from RFCXML. An attacker can inject a malicious link element into the prepped RFCXML, which can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files on the server. This issue is particularly concerning as it allows for arbitrary file reads, potentially exposing confidential data.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.34.1 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "xml2rfc==3.34.1"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
3.30.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "xml2rfc==3.30.2"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, validate any untrusted input containing link elements with rel="attachment" before processing them. This can help mitigate the risk of arbitrary file reads.
Conclusion
The xml2rfc package has a critical vulnerability that allows for arbitrary file reads through malicious link elements. It is essential to update to the patched version 3.30.2 or later to mitigate this risk. Additionally, implementing the provided workaround can help protect against potential exploitation until an update can be applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for xml2rfc →
FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.7, indicating a high severity level.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files on the server, which may result in data breaches or loss of confidentiality.
Yes, Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the Pipfile.lock.
If immediate updates are not possible, implement the suggested workaround by validating untrusted input before processing.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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