Description
Bio-Formats versions up to and including 8.3.0 contain an XML External Entity (XXE) vulnerability in the Leica Microsystems metadata parsing component (e.g., XLEF). The parser uses an insecurely configured DocumentBuilderFactory when processing Leica XML-based metadata files, allowing external entity expansion and external DTD loading. A crafted metadata file can trigger outbound network requests (SSRF), access local system resources where readable, or cause a denial of service during XML parsing.
Problem types
CWE-611 Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference
Product status
Any version
Credits
Ron Edgerson
References
seclists.org/fulldisclosure/2026/Jan/6
docs.openmicroscopy.org/bio-formats/
www.vulncheck.com/...rmats-xxe-in-leica-xlef-metadata-parser