CVE-2017-11427: python-saml - XML DOM Traversal and Canonicalization Vulnerability

python-saml Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

05/07/2019
Yes i
High
7.7

CVE-2017-11427: Python-saml allows manipulation of SAML data without invalidation of cryptographic signature. Affects python-saml versions < 2.4.0. Fixed in 2.4.0. How to fix ↓

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Background

python-saml is a Python library that provides support for SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) authentication. It allows applications to integrate with SAML service providers for secure authentication and authorization. This vulnerability affects OneLogin PythonSAML version 2.3.0 and earlier. The library incorrectly utilizes XML DOM traversal and canonicalization APIs, which can be exploited by an attacker to manipulate SAML data without invalidating the cryptographic signature. This manipulation could potentially bypass authentication to SAML service providers.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in python-saml arises from the incorrect usage of XML DOM traversal and canonicalization APIs. By manipulating the SAML data, an attacker can bypass authentication to SAML service providers without invalidating the cryptographic signature. This can lead to unauthorized access and potential security breaches. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.7, indicating a high severity level.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.4.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

pip install --upgrade "python-saml==2.4.0"

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to upgrade to the fixed version of python-saml to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Conclusion

The XML DOM Traversal and Canonicalization vulnerability in python-saml can lead to unauthorized access and bypassing of SAML service provider authentication. It is crucial to upgrade to version 2.4.0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

python-saml is a Python library that provides support for SAML authentication, allowing applications to integrate with SAML service providers for secure authentication and authorization.

This vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate SAML data without invalidating the cryptographic signature, potentially bypassing authentication to SAML service providers and gaining unauthorized access.

The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.7, indicating a high severity level.

To fix this vulnerability, upgrade to version 2.4.0 or later of python-saml, which includes the necessary fixes to prevent the manipulation of SAML data.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Upgrading to the fixed version is the recommended solution.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

2.4.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

pip install --upgrade "python-saml==2.4.0"

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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