CVE-2015-4706: Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in IPython
Summary
CVE-2015-4706: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in IPython 3.x before 3.2 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via vectors involving JSON error messages and the /api/contents path. Affects ipython across 3 version ranges.
>= 3.0.0, < 3.2.0
< 7222bd53ad089a65fd610fab4626f9d0ab47dfce
< c2078a53543ed502efd968649fee1125e0eb549c
Fixed in c2078a53543ed502efd968649fee1125e0eb549c. How to fix ↓
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Background
IPython is an interactive command-line interface for Python that provides enhanced features for code execution, debugging, and data visualization. It is widely used by developers and data scientists for interactive computing and exploratory data analysis. However, versions of IPython prior to 3.2 are vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML through JSON error messages and the /api/contents path.
Vulnerability Detail
The XSS vulnerability in IPython arises from a lack of proper input sanitization and validation. By crafting malicious JSON error messages and exploiting the /api/contents path, an attacker can inject arbitrary web script or HTML code into the IPython interface. This can lead to various security risks, including session hijacking, unauthorized data access, and phishing attacks. It is important to note that this vulnerability affects IPython versions prior to 3.2.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
c2078a53543ed502efd968649fee1125e0eb549c
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "ipython==c2078a53543ed502efd968649fee1125e0eb549c"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading IPython is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the /api/contents path or implement additional input validation and sanitization measures. However, these workarounds may not provide complete protection and it is strongly advised to upgrade to the latest version of IPython as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The XSS vulnerability in IPython versions prior to 3.2 poses a significant security risk, allowing remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML code. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade IPython to version 3.2 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, implementing temporary workarounds and additional input validation measures can provide partial protection. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject malicious web script or HTML code into IPython, potentially leading to session hijacking, unauthorized data access, and phishing attacks.
Versions of IPython prior to 3.2 are affected by this XSS vulnerability.
You can check the version of IPython by running the command 'ipython --version' in your terminal or command prompt.
While specific exploits targeting this vulnerability have not been disclosed publicly, it is important to address the issue promptly to mitigate potential risks.
As of now, there is no publicly available proof-of-concept for this vulnerability. However, it is advisable to treat this vulnerability seriously and take appropriate measures to protect your IPython installation.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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