Content Spoofing Vulnerability in Django - CVE-2019-3498
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2019-3498: In Django 1.11.x before 1.11.18, 2.0.x before 2.0.10, and 2.1.x before 2.1.5, an Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component issue exists in django.views.defaults.page_not_found()... Affects py-django versions < 1.11.18-r0. Fixed in 1.11.18-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Django is a high-level Python web framework that encourages rapid development and clean, pragmatic design. It provides a robust set of features for building web applications, including an ORM, authentication, and an admin interface. However, certain versions of Django are vulnerable to a content spoofing issue, particularly in the handling of 404 error pages, which can mislead users into believing malicious content is legitimate.
Vulnerability Detail
In Django versions 1.11.x before 1.11.18, 2.0.x before 2.0.10, and 2.1.x before 2.1.5, there exists an Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component issue in the django.views.defaults.page_not_found() function. This vulnerability can lead to content spoofing, where a crafted URL can display misleading information on a 404 error page, potentially tricking users into interacting with malicious content. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.11.18-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade py-djangoTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, consider implementing custom error handling for 404 pages that sanitizes user input and avoids displaying potentially harmful content. This can be done by overriding the default 404 error view in your Django application.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-3498 vulnerability in Django poses a risk of content spoofing on 404 error pages, which can mislead users. It is crucial to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-3498 is a vulnerability in certain versions of Django that allows for content spoofing on 404 error pages.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The affected versions include Django 1.11.x before 1.11.18, 2.0.x before 2.0.10, and 2.1.x before 2.1.5.
If an immediate update is not possible, implement custom error handling for 404 pages to mitigate the risk of content spoofing.
Vulert monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json, providing real-time insights into potential risks.
References
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