Insufficient Entropy in parsel

parsel Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

04/09/2020
CRITICAL
No i
Critical
Not published

GHSA-vjvw-wcmw-pr26: Insufficient Entropy in parsel. Affects parsel versions >= 0.0.0. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The parsel package is an npm package used for parsing and extracting data from HTML and XML documents. It provides a convenient API for navigating and extracting information from web pages. However, all versions of parsel suffer from an insecure key derivation function. The package uses a weak key stretching mechanism by running keys of arbitrary lengths through only one round of SHA256 hashing. This allows for the use of keys with insufficient entropy, which can lead to security vulnerabilities.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in parsel arises from the insecure key derivation function. By using a weak key stretching mechanism, the package allows the use of keys with insufficient entropy. This can make the package susceptible to brute-force attacks and other cryptographic attacks. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or tamper with the parsing process. It is important to note that the parsel package is deprecated and will not receive any updates, making it even more critical to address this vulnerability.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As the parsel package is deprecated, there is no specific workaround provided. However, developers can explore alternative packages that offer similar functionality and ensure they implement secure key derivation functions. It is crucial to thoroughly test and validate the chosen package to ensure it meets the required security standards.

Conclusion

The parsel package suffers from an insecure key derivation function, allowing the use of keys with insufficient entropy. As the package is deprecated and will not receive any updates, it is crucial to address this vulnerability by switching to an alternative package that implements a secure key derivation function. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

parsel is an npm package used for parsing and extracting data from HTML and XML documents. It provides a convenient API for navigating and extracting information from web pages.

The vulnerability in parsel is due to its insecure key derivation function. It uses a weak key stretching mechanism that allows the use of keys with insufficient entropy, making it susceptible to cryptographic attacks.

The vulnerability in parsel can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information or tampering with the parsing process. This can result in data breaches, compromised systems, and other security incidents.

Since the parsel package is deprecated and no longer maintained, there is no official fix available. It is recommended to switch to an alternative package that implements a secure key derivation function.

To mitigate the risk, it is advisable to review and update any code that relies on the parsel package. Switching to an alternative package that provides a secure key derivation function is also recommended.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for parsel.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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