CVE-2021-3312: XML External Entity Reference in org.opencms:opencms-core
Summary
CVE-2021-3312: XML External Entity Reference in org.opencms:opencms-core. Affects org.opencms:opencms-core versions >= 11.0.0, < 12.0.0. Fixed in 12.0.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
The org.opencms:opencms-core package is a component of Alkacon OpenCms, a content management system (CMS) written in Java. It provides core functionality for managing and publishing web content. The package is widely used by organizations to create and maintain websites, intranets, and other online applications. However, versions 11.0.0 to 11.0.2 of the package are vulnerable to an XML external entity (XXE) attack.
Vulnerability Detail
The XML external entity (XXE) vulnerability in org.opencms:opencms-core allows remote authenticated users with edit privileges to exfiltrate files from the server's file system by uploading a crafted SVG document. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to access sensitive information stored on the server, such as configuration files, user credentials, or other confidential data. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.5, indicating a moderate severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 22.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
12.0.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is necessary to apply the fix by upgrading to a secure version of the org.opencms:opencms-core package.
Conclusion
The org.opencms:opencms-core package in Alkacon OpenCms versions 11.0.0 to 11.0.2 is vulnerable to an XML external entity (XXE) attack. This can allow remote authenticated users with edit privileges to exfiltrate files from the server's file system by uploading a crafted SVG document. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade to version 12.0.0 or later of the package. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
An XML external entity (XXE) vulnerability is a type of security flaw that allows an attacker to exploit the processing of XML data by including external entities. By leveraging this vulnerability, an attacker can read files from the server's file system, potentially accessing sensitive information.
Organizations using Alkacon OpenCms versions 11.0.0 to 11.0.2 with the org.opencms:opencms-core package are affected by this vulnerability. Users with edit privileges are particularly at risk.
An attacker can upload a specially crafted SVG document to exfiltrate files from the server's file system. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as configuration files, user credentials, or other confidential data.
Yes, the vulnerability has been fixed in version 12.0.0 and later of the org.opencms:opencms-core package. It is recommended to upgrade to the latest version to ensure the security of the application.
There are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability at the time of writing. However, it is important to apply the fix as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
References
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