CWE-643

Improper Neutralization of Data within XPath Expressions ('XPath Injection')

High

Description

The product uses external input to dynamically construct an XPath expression used to retrieve data from an XML database, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes that input. This allows an attacker to control the structure of the query.

Potential Impact

How to Fix

Implementation

Use parameterized XPath queries (e.g. using XQuery). This will help ensure separation between data plane and control plane.

Implementation

Properly validate user input. Reject data where appropriate, filter where appropriate and escape where appropriate. Make sure input that will be used in XPath queries is safe in that context.

Detection Methods

Related Weaknesses

References

View on MITRE CWE Database →

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