CVE-2020-27193: Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in CKEditor4 Color Dialog Plugin
Summary
CVE-2020-27193: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation in CKEditor4. Affects ckeditor4 versions < 4.15.1. Fixed in 4.15.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
CKEditor4 is a popular open-source rich text editor used for web content creation. It provides a user-friendly interface for editing HTML content and is widely integrated into various web applications. The Color Dialog plugin in CKEditor4 allows users to select and apply colors to text or background elements within the editor. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in version 4.15.0 of CKEditor4, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary web script by tricking users into pasting specially crafted HTML code into the editor inputs.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2020-27193, is an instance of cross-site scripting (XSS) that arises due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation in CKEditor4. When the Color Dialog plugin is used in CKEditor4 version 4.15.0 or earlier, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to copy and paste malicious HTML code into one of the editor inputs. This code will then be executed within the context of the user's session, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft. The severity of this vulnerability is rated as MODERATE with a CVSS score of 6.1.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 4.25.2 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install ckeditor4@4.25.2Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
4.15.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install ckeditor4@4.15.1Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading CKEditor4 is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the Color Dialog plugin or restrict its usage to trusted users only. This can be achieved by modifying the CKEditor4 configuration to exclude the Color Dialog plugin or by implementing access controls that prevent untrusted users from accessing the plugin's functionality.
Conclusion
The CVE-2020-27193 vulnerability in CKEditor4's Color Dialog plugin exposes users to the risk of cross-site scripting attacks. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update CKEditor4 to version 4.15.1 or later. Alternatively, disabling or restricting the usage of the Color Dialog plugin can serve as a temporary workaround. For further assistance or information on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
CKEditor4 is an open-source rich text editor used for web content creation. It provides a user-friendly interface for editing HTML content and is widely integrated into various web applications.
The Color Dialog plugin in CKEditor4 allows users to select and apply colors to text or background elements within the editor. It enhances the editing experience by providing a visual color picker and various color customization options.
Cross-site scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, or the manipulation of displayed content.
The CVE-2020-27193 vulnerability can be exploited by tricking users into copying and pasting specially crafted HTML code into the CKEditor4 editor inputs. When the code is executed within the user's session, it can perform unauthorized actions or steal sensitive data.
The severity of the CVE-2020-27193 vulnerability is rated as MODERATE with a CVSS score of 6.1. While it poses a potential risk, its impact may vary depending on the specific implementation and usage of CKEditor4.
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