Critical XXE Vulnerability in c3p0 Package: CVE-2018-20433
Summary
CVE-2018-20433: c3p0 0.9.5.2 allows XXE in extractXmlConfigFromInputStream in com/mchange/v2/c3p0/cfg/C3P0ConfigXmlUtils.java during initialization. Affects c3p0 across 3 version ranges.
< 0.9.1.2-10
< 2eb0ea97f745740b18dd45e4a909112d4685f87b
< 9f97c814aef31b2997d6ecfad1e3875c6136317b
Fixed in 0.9.1.2-10. How to fix ↓
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Background
c3p0 is a popular open-source JDBC connection pooling library for Java applications. It provides a robust and flexible way to manage database connections, allowing for efficient resource utilization and improved application performance. The library is widely used in various Java applications to enhance database interaction. However, a significant vulnerability has been identified that exposes applications using c3p0 to XML External Entity (XXE) attacks, which can lead to sensitive data exposure and system compromise.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2018-20433 is a vulnerability in c3p0 version 0.9.5.2 that allows for XML External Entity (XXE) attacks during the initialization process. This vulnerability arises from the improper handling of XML input, which can be exploited by an attacker to read arbitrary files on the server or perform other malicious actions. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to sensitive data, denial of service, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly critical due to its high CVSS score of 9.8, indicating severe risk to affected systems.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.9.1.2-10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade c3p0Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If an immediate upgrade is not feasible, consider disabling XML parsing features in your application or using a different configuration method that does not rely on XML input. Additionally, ensure that your application is not processing untrusted XML data.
Conclusion
CVE-2018-20433 represents a critical vulnerability in the c3p0 library that can lead to severe security risks if not addressed. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to the fixed version to protect their applications from potential exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
CVE-2018-20433 is a vulnerability in the c3p0 JDBC connection pooling library that allows for XML External Entity (XXE) attacks.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The risks include unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential denial of service, and complete system compromise due to the exploitation of the XXE vulnerability.
It is recommended to upgrade to c3p0 version 0.9.1.2-10 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Yes, Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
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