Description Preview
Typora versions 0.9.65 and earlier contain a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability occurs during the rendering of mathematical formula blocks, where malicious commands can be injected. This security flaw could lead to unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, or other malicious activities if a user opens a specially crafted markdown document.
Overview
This vulnerability (CVE-2020-18221) affects Typora, a popular markdown editor and reader application. The issue is classified as CWE-79 (Cross-Site Scripting) and allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code through mathematical formula blocks. When a victim opens a maliciously crafted markdown document, the injected code executes in the context of the application, potentially giving attackers access to sensitive information or allowing them to perform actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability exists because Typora fails to properly sanitize user input in mathematical formula blocks before rendering them.
Remediation
To address this vulnerability, users should:
- Update Typora to a version newer than 0.9.65 as soon as possible.
- Exercise caution when opening markdown files from untrusted sources.
- Disable automatic rendering of mathematical formulas if the feature is not needed.
- Consider using content security policies if integrating Typora in web applications.
For developers:
- Implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied content.
- Use safe rendering methods that escape potentially dangerous characters.
- Consider implementing a Content Security Policy to restrict script execution.
References
- GitHub Issue: https://github.com/typora/typora-issues/issues/2204
- CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting'): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/79.html
- MITRE CVE Entry: CVE-2020-18221
Industry ExposureMost to leastThis section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
- Accommodation & Food ServicesAccommodation & Food Services
- Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation ServicesAdministrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
- Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & HuntingAgriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
- Arts, Entertainment & RecreationArts, Entertainment & Recreation
- ConstructionConstruction
- Educational ServicesEducational Services
- Finance and InsuranceFinance and Insurance
- Health Care & Social AssistanceHealth Care & Social Assistance
- InformationInformation
- Management of Companies & EnterprisesManagement of Companies & Enterprises
- ManufacturingManufacturing
- MiningMining
- Other Services (except Public Administration)Other Services (except Public Administration)
- Professional, Scientific, & Technical ServicesProfessional, Scientific, & Technical Services
- Public AdministrationPublic Administration
- Real Estate Rental & LeasingReal Estate Rental & Leasing
- Retail TradeRetail Trade
- Transportation & WarehousingTransportation & Warehousing
- UtilitiesUtilities
- Wholesale TradeWholesale Trade