CVE-2017-1000483: Plone - Accessing private content via str.format in through-the-web templates and scripts
Summary
CVE-2017-1000483: Accessing private content via str.format in through-the-web templates and scripts in Plone 2.5-5.1rc1. Affects plone across 2 version ranges.
>= 2.5, < 4.3.16
>= 5, < 5.1.0
Fixed in 4.3.16 or 5.1.0, 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 is widely used for building robust and secure web applications.
Vulnerability Detail
This vulnerability in Plone allows an attacker to access private content by exploiting the use of str.format in through-the-web templates and scripts. The issue arises from a flaw in the format method introduced in Python 2.6, which affects Plone versions 4 and 5. By manipulating the format strings, an attacker can bypass access controls and retrieve sensitive information that should be restricted.
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.
-
>= 2.5, < 4.3.164.3.16pip install --upgrade "plone==4.3.16" -
>= 5, < 5.1.05.1.0pip install --upgrade "plone==5.1.0"
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 specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. However, as a general best practice, it is recommended to follow secure coding practices and validate user input to prevent potential exploitation of format strings.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Plone allows unauthorized access to private content through the exploitation of str.format in through-the-web templates and scripts. To mitigate the risk, it is crucial to upgrade to the fixed versions of Plone (4.3.16 or 5.1.0) and review any custom templates and scripts for potential vulnerabilities. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows unauthorized access to private content, potentially exposing sensitive information.
Plone versions 2.5 to 5.1rc1 are affected. The vulnerability is only relevant for Plone 4 and 5, as the format method was introduced in Python 2.6.
There are no known public exploits available for this vulnerability at the time of this report.
Yes, upgrading to Plone versions 4.3.16 or 5.1.0 will address the vulnerability.
If you are using an unsupported version of Plone, it is recommended to upgrade to a supported version as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of this vulnerability.
References
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