Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability in Universal Feed Parser
Summary
CVE-2011-1157: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in feedparser.py in Universal Feed Parser (aka feedparser or python-feedparser) 5.x before 5.0.1 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via malformed XML c... Affects feedparser versions < 5.0.1-1. Fixed in 5.0.1-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
Universal Feed Parser (aka feedparser or python-feedparser) is a Python library used for parsing syndication feeds. It provides a convenient way to extract and process data from various feed formats. The library is widely used in applications that handle RSS and Atom feeds. However, versions 5.x before 5.0.1 of Universal Feed Parser are vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2011-1157) arises from a lack of proper input validation in the feedparser.py module of Universal Feed Parser. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious web scripts or HTML code into malformed XML comments. When the vulnerable code processes the feed, the injected code is executed in the context of the victim's browser, leading to potential unauthorized actions, data theft, or other malicious activities.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.0.1-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade feedparserTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, developers can implement additional input validation and sanitization measures when processing feeds. This can involve using dedicated HTML sanitization libraries or frameworks to strip out potentially malicious code. However, applying the official fix by upgrading to the latest version is the recommended approach.
Conclusion
The cross-site scripting vulnerability in Universal Feed Parser (CVE-2011-1157) can have serious security implications for applications that process syndication feeds. It is crucial to promptly update to version 5.0.1-1 or later to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for feedparser →
FAQ
Universal Feed Parser is a Python library used for parsing syndication feeds, such as RSS and Atom.
Cross-site scripting is a web security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.
The vulnerability allows attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML code into feeds processed by Universal Feed Parser. This can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, or other malicious activities when users view the affected feeds.
Developers can implement additional input validation and sanitization measures when processing feeds as a temporary workaround. However, upgrading to the fixed version of Universal Feed Parser is the recommended solution.
You can find more information about the vulnerability in the CVE-2011-1157 JSON report available at the following source: https://storage.googleapis.com/cve-osv-conversion/osv-output/CVE-2011-1157.json
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