CVE-2017-5524: Plone Sandbox Protection Bypass
Summary
CVE-2017-5524: Plone 4.x through 4.3.11 and 5.x through 5.0.6 allow remote attackers to bypass a sandbox protection mechanism and obtain sensitive information by leveraging the Python string format method. Affects plone across 2 version ranges.
< 4.3.12
>= 5.0a1, < 5.0.7
Fixed in 4.3.12 or 5.0.7, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
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Background
Plone is an open-source content management system built on top of the Zope application server. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing websites and supports various features such as content creation, editing, and publishing. Plone versions 4.x through 4.3.11 and 5.x through 5.0.6 are affected by a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to bypass a sandbox protection mechanism and obtain sensitive information. This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of the Python string format method.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Plone allows attackers to bypass the sandbox protection mechanism and gain access to sensitive information. By leveraging the Python string format method, an attacker can manipulate the input in a way that leads to the disclosure of sensitive data. This could include user credentials, database information, or other confidential data stored within the Plone application. The impact of this vulnerability depends on the specific data that can be accessed and the privileges of the compromised user.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 6.2.2 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "plone==6.2.2"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 4.3.124.3.12pip install --upgrade "plone==4.3.12" -
>= 5.0a1, < 5.0.75.0.7pip install --upgrade "plone==5.0.7"
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is necessary to apply the provided fix by upgrading to a patched version of Plone.
Conclusion
The Plone content management system is susceptible to a sandbox protection bypass vulnerability, allowing attackers to obtain sensitive information. To mitigate this vulnerability, users should upgrade their Plone installations to versions 4.3.12 or 5.0.7, which include the necessary fixes. It is also important to review and update any custom code or third-party plugins that may be affected. For additional support and guidance, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass sandbox protection and access sensitive information stored within the Plone application. The impact depends on the specific data that can be accessed and the privileges of the compromised user.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your Plone installation is affected by this vulnerability. Simply provide your Pipfile.lock file, and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the fix promptly to mitigate any potential risks.
No, the recommended mitigation is to upgrade to a fixed version of Plone. Applying the provided fix ensures that the vulnerability is properly addressed and eliminates the risk of exploitation.
For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to info@devnack.com. Our team of experts will be happy to assist you in securing your Plone installation.
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