External Entity Vulnerability in Libxml2 Affecting Multiple Versions

CVE-2024-40896

What is CVE-2024-40896?

CVE-2024-40896 is a critical vulnerability identified in the Libxml2 library, widely utilized for parsing XML documents in various applications. The vulnerability stems from an issue in the SAX parser that enables the potential for classic XML External Entity (XXE) attacks. This flaw can severely impact organizations that rely on Libxml2 for processing XML, as it could allow attackers to exploit the parser's handling of external entities, leading to unauthorized access or information disclosure and compromising the integrity of the system.

Technical Details

The CVE-2024-40896 vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Libxml2 library, specifically versions prior to 2.11.9, 2.12.9, and 2.13.3. The core issue lies in the SAX parser's behavior, which fails to adequately quarantine external entities when using custom SAX handlers. As such, even with attempts to restrict the processing of these entities through the "checked" configuration, the parser continues to produce events associated with external entities. This oversight exposes applications that depend on Libxml2 to XXE vulnerabilities, enabling attackers to potentially access or manipulate sensitive data.

Potential impact of CVE-2024-40896

1. Unauthorized Data Access: Attackers can exploit the vulnerability to access sensitive information stored within the system or other connected services, leading to potential data breaches and compliance issues.

2. System Compromise: The ability to manipulate external entities could enable attackers to perform actions that compromise system integrity, potentially leading to broader network intrusions and further exploitation.

3. Increased Attack Surface: As Libxml2 is commonly used across various open-source and enterprise applications, the presence of this vulnerability increases the risk of widespread exploitation, prompting a pressing need for security reviews and updates across affected environments.

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