CVE-2022-48565 : What You Need to Know

An XML External Entity (XXE) issue was discovered in Python through 3.9.1. The plistlib module no longer accepts entity declarations in XML plist files to avoid XML vulnerabilities.

Understanding CVE-2022-48565

This vulnerability, identified as an XML External Entity (XXE) issue, poses a threat through the plistlib module in Python up to version 3.9.1.

What is CVE-2022-48565?

The CVE-2022-48565 vulnerability reveals an XML External Entity (XXE) problem within Python versions up to 3.9.1. Due to security reasons, the plistlib module now disallows entity declarations in XML plist files to prevent potential XML vulnerabilities.

The Impact of CVE-2022-48565

This vulnerability could lead to XML External Entity (XXE) attacks, enabling threat actors to exploit the system's processing of XML data and potentially access sensitive information or execute arbitrary code.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-48565

In-depth technical details include:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves the plistlib module in Python versions through 3.9.1, where entity declarations in XML plist files are no longer accepted to mitigate XML-based vulnerabilities.

Affected Systems and Versions

All Python versions up to 3.9.1 are affected by this vulnerability due to the handling of entity declarations in XML plist files by the plistlib module.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting malicious XML files with entity declarations to trigger XXE attacks in Python applications.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-48565, consider the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Python to the latest version where the plistlib module has been patched to disallow entity declarations in XML plist files.
Be cautious while processing XML data to avoid potential XXE attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and apply patches promptly.
Educate developers on secure coding practices related to XML data handling.

Patching and Updates

Refer to the following resources for patches and updates:

Debian Security Update Python 2.7
Debian Security Update Python 3.7
NetApp Security Advisory
Fedora Advisory 1
Fedora Advisory 2
Fedora Advisory 3