CVE-2020-18221:Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Typora markdown editor allows code execution via mathematical formula blocks.

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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:

  1. Update Typora to a version newer than 0.9.65 as soon as possible.
  2. Exercise caution when opening markdown files from untrusted sources.
  3. Disable automatic rendering of mathematical formulas if the feature is not needed.
  4. Consider using content security policies if integrating Typora in web applications.

For developers:

  1. Implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied content.
  2. Use safe rendering methods that escape potentially dangerous characters.
  3. Consider implementing a Content Security Policy to restrict script execution.

References

  1. GitHub Issue: https://github.com/typora/typora-issues/issues/2204
  2. CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting'): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/79.html
  3. MITRE CVE Entry: CVE-2020-18221

Industry ExposureMost to least
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.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database