CVE-2017-8315 in IDE
Summary
by MITRE
Eclipse XML parser for the Eclipse IDE versions 2017.2.5 and earlier was found vulnerable to an XML External Entity attack. An attacker can exploit the vulnerability by implementing malicious code on Androidmanifest.xml.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2020
The Eclipse IDE XML parser vulnerability CVE-2017-8315 represents a critical security flaw that affects developers working with Android applications within the Eclipse development environment. This vulnerability specifically targets the XML external entity processing functionality that is integral to how Eclipse handles Android manifest files and other XML-based configurations. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of external entity references during XML parsing operations, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject harmful code into the development workflow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the Eclipse IDE processes AndroidManifest.xml files that contain malicious external entity declarations. When the XML parser encounters these references, it automatically resolves them without proper validation, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the developer's machine. This flaw falls under the CWE-611 weakness category, which specifically addresses improper restriction of XML external entities, and aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the parsing layer where legitimate development activities intersect with security controls, making it difficult to detect through conventional means.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8315 extends beyond simple code injection, as it can enable full system compromise when developers unknowingly open maliciously crafted Android manifest files. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive development data, or establish persistent backdoors on developer workstations. The attack surface is particularly wide because AndroidManifest.xml files are commonly shared among team members, integrated into version control systems, and frequently updated during development cycles. This makes the exploitation vector highly accessible and potentially widespread within development organizations that use Eclipse IDE for Android development.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of Eclipse IDE versions 2017.2.5 and earlier to address the XML parsing behavior. Organizations should implement strict XML validation policies and disable external entity resolution in all XML processing components. Additionally, developers should employ secure coding practices such as input sanitization and regular security scanning of XML files before integration. The remediation process should include comprehensive security training for development teams to recognize potentially malicious XML content and establish secure development practices that prevent unauthorized entity resolution. Regular updates to IDE components and implementation of automated security scanning tools can help prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.