CVE-2014-0472 in Django
Summary
by MITRE
The django.core.urlresolvers.reverse function in Django before 1.4.11, 1.5.x before 1.5.6, 1.6.x before 1.6.3, and 1.7.x before 1.7 beta 2 allows remote attackers to import and execute arbitrary Python modules by leveraging a view that constructs URLs using user input and a "dotted Python path."
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-0472 represents a critical security flaw in the Django web framework that affects multiple versions from 1.4.11 through 1.7 beta 2. This issue specifically targets the django.core.urlresolvers.reverse function which is responsible for generating URLs based on named URL patterns. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization when processing user-supplied data that gets passed to the reverse function. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that contains a dotted Python path, which then gets interpreted and executed by the framework's URL resolution mechanism. This represents a classic case of insecure deserialization and code execution vulnerability that can be leveraged for remote code execution attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Django applications utilize the reverse function with user-controllable input without proper sanitization. When a view constructs URLs using user-provided data through the reverse function, the framework attempts to resolve the dotted Python path as if it were a legitimate module path. This behavior creates a path traversal and code execution vector where attackers can import and execute arbitrary Python modules on the server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the framework level and can be exploited without requiring authentication or specific user privileges. The flaw is categorized under CWE-472, which specifically addresses "External Control of Critical State Data," and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.006 for Python-based command and control operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0472 is severe and far-reaching for organizations running affected Django applications. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms being established on the affected servers. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application process, potentially escalating to full system control. The vulnerability affects web applications that use user input in URL generation contexts, making it particularly dangerous for applications with features such as dynamic URL generation, user profile management, or any functionality that allows users to influence URL patterns. Organizations using Django frameworks in production environments are at significant risk, especially those with applications that do not properly validate or sanitize user input before passing it to URL resolution functions.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of Django where available, specifically versions 1.4.11, 1.5.6, 1.6.3, and 1.7 beta 2 or later. Additionally, developers should sanitize all user input that gets passed to the reverse function by implementing proper validation and whitelisting mechanisms. The use of parameterized URL generation and avoiding direct user input in URL pattern resolution should be enforced. Security measures should include input validation at multiple layers, including application-level filtering, web application firewalls, and runtime monitoring for suspicious code execution patterns. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify potential exploitation vectors, while also implementing proper logging and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized code execution attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for web application processes and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and the need for comprehensive input validation in web application frameworks.