CVE-2020-37192 in MSN Password Recovery
Summary
by MITRE • 02/11/2026
MSN Password Recovery 1.30 contains an XML external entity injection vulnerability that allows attackers to read local system files through crafted XML input. Attackers can exploit the 'Favorites' tab by injecting a malicious XML file that references external entities to retrieve sensitive system configuration information.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37192 represents a critical XML external entity injection flaw within MSN Password Recovery version 1.30. This weakness resides in the application's handling of XML data, specifically when processing user favorites stored in the application's database. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of XML content, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the parsing process through crafted XML input. The attack vector specifically targets the 'Favorites' tab functionality, where the application processes XML-formatted data containing user preferences and saved passwords. This design flaw creates a pathway for unauthorized data access through the exploitation of XML parsing mechanisms that do not properly restrict external entity resolution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-611, which categorizes XML external entity injection as a serious weakness in XML processing systems. The flaw enables attackers to construct malicious XML documents that reference external entities, potentially allowing the application to fetch and process remote resources during XML parsing. When the application attempts to parse these crafted XML files, it resolves external entity references, inadvertently exposing local system information. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through carefully constructed XML payloads that leverage the XML parser's capabilities to access local file system resources. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely through the application's user interface, making it particularly dangerous for desktop applications that handle sensitive user data.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-37192 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to comprehensive system reconnaissance and potential privilege escalation. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can access system configuration files, user credentials, and other sensitive data stored locally on the victim's machine. The vulnerability's exploitation can be automated through the application's legitimate user interface, making detection more challenging. From an attacker's perspective, this flaw represents a significant foothold for further compromise, as it provides access to system-level information that can be used to plan more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability affects systems where MSN Password Recovery is installed, potentially exposing users to credential theft and system compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for XML external entity injection and T1566 for credential access through local system interaction.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-37192 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of MSN Password Recovery that properly validates and sanitizes XML input, implementing strict XML parser configurations that disable external entity resolution, and applying input validation controls that prevent malicious XML structures from being processed. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to systems running vulnerable applications and establish monitoring protocols to detect unusual XML processing activities. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments, particularly for applications handling sensitive user data. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting user privileges can reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider disabling or removing the vulnerable application if it is not essential for business operations, as the risk of exploitation outweighs the benefits of continued use in its vulnerable state.