XML External Entity Vulnerability in Bio-Formats by Leica Microsystems
CVE-2026-22186

4.6MEDIUM

Key Information:

Vendor

Open Microscopy Environment

Status
Bio-formats
Vendor
CVE Published:
7 January 2026

Badges

👾 Exploit Exists🟡 Public PoC

What is CVE-2026-22186?

Bio-Formats, a product developed by Leica Microsystems, contains a significant XML External Entity (XXE) vulnerability in its metadata parsing process. The flaw arises from the insecure configuration of the DocumentBuilderFactory, which is employed when handling Leica XML-based metadata files. This vulnerability allows an attacker to potentially exploit crafted metadata files to perform outbound network requests (SSRF), gain unauthorized access to local system resources, or disrupt service during the XML parsing process. This exposes systems to various security risks, highlighting the need for prompt remediation.

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Affected Version(s)

Bio-Formats 0 <= 8.3.0

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

CVE-2026-22186 - Proof of Concept

References

https://seclists.org/fulldisclosure/2026/Jan/6
technical-descriptionexploit
https://docs.openmicroscopy.org/bio-formats/
productrelease-notes
https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/bio-formats-xxe-in-l...
third-party-advisory

CVSS V4

Score:
4.6
Severity:
MEDIUM
Confidentiality:
Low
Integrity:
None
Availability:
Low
Attack Vector:
Local
Attack Complexity:
Low
Attack Required:
None
Privileges Required:
Undefined
User Interaction:
Unknown

Timeline

  • 🟡

    Public PoC available

  • 👾

    Exploit known to exist

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

Ron Edgerson
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