Denial of Service Vulnerability in libxml-security-java: Apache Santuario XML Security for Java
Summary
CVE-2013-4517: Apache Santuario XML Security for Java before 1.5.6, when applying Transforms, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory consumption) via crafted Document Type Definitions (DTDs), related to signatures... Affects libxml-security-java versions < 1.5.6-1. Fixed in 1.5.6-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libxml-security-java is a Java library that provides XML security features, including digital signatures and encryption, based on the Apache Santuario project. It is widely used in applications that require secure XML processing. However, prior to version 1.5.6, the library is susceptible to a denial of service attack due to improper handling of crafted Document Type Definitions (DTDs) during the application of Transforms.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2013-4517, arises from the way libxml-security-java processes DTDs when applying Transforms. Attackers can exploit this flaw by sending specially crafted DTDs that lead to excessive memory consumption, potentially causing the application to become unresponsive. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for applications that process untrusted XML data, as it can lead to service outages and degrade user experience.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.5.6-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libxml-security-javaTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can implement input validation to restrict the processing of untrusted XML data that may contain DTDs. This can help mitigate the risk of denial of service attacks until the library is updated. Additionally, consider disabling DTD processing in your XML parser if it is not required for your application.
Conclusion
CVE-2013-4517 represents a significant denial of service vulnerability in the libxml-security-java library, impacting applications that rely on it for XML security. It is crucial for developers to upgrade to version 1.5.6-1 or later to mitigate this risk. Additionally, implementing workarounds can provide temporary relief until the upgrade is completed.
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FAQ
CVE-2013-4517 is a vulnerability in libxml-security-java that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through crafted Document Type Definitions.
You can check if your application is affected by using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner, which allows you to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities without needing to sign up.
The primary consequence of this vulnerability is denial of service, which can lead to application downtime and a poor user experience.
Yes, you can implement input validation and disable DTD processing in your XML parser as a temporary measure until you can upgrade the library.
Versions of libxml-security-java prior to 1.5.6 are affected by this vulnerability.
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