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CVE Record

CVE-2020-13959: Velocity Tools XSS Vulnerability

The default error page for VelocityView in Apache Velocity Tools prior to 3.1 reflects back the vm file that was entered as part of the URL. An attacker can set an XSS payload file as this vm file in the URL which results in this payload being executed. XSS vulnerabilities allow attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of the attacked website and the attacked user. This can be abused to steal session cookies, perform requests in the name of the victim or for phishing attacks.

UnknownCVSS not scoredNot KEV-listedUpdated
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Glexia's TakeAutomated analysis

Security readout for executives and security teams

Apache Velocity Tools before 3.1 can reflect attacker-controlled URL content on VelocityView’s default error page, creating cross-site scripting risk. If exposed, an attacker could run JavaScript in a user’s browser under the affected site’s context, enabling session theft, phishing, or unauthorized actions as that user. Exposure is likely limited to applications using Apache Velocity Tools VelocityView before 3.1, especially where the default error page is reachable by users or the internet. Treat as a targeted web application risk, not an emergency based on provided evidence. Prioritize internet-facing or authenticated business-critical apps using Velocity Tools before 3.1, because XSS can compromise user sessions and trust. Mitigation focus: Upgrade Apache Velocity Tools to version 3.1 or later.; Apply relevant distribution security updates, such as Debian or Gentoo packages where applicable.; Check Apache and operating system vendor advisories for environment-specific guidance..

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Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.

Potential ATT&CK relevance

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CWE-79: User-session and phishing behavior lookup

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CVE-2020-13959 mapping review

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Vulnerability profileCVE Program record
Severity
Unknown
CVSS
Not scored
Known Exploited
No
Published
Official CVE source material

CNA and ADP enrichment extracted from CVE v5

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0CVSS vectors
0Timeline events
0ADP providers
7Source links

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Source materials

Affected products

Products and packages named in the record

VendorProductVersion / packageStatus
Apache Software FoundationApache Velocity ToolsApache Velocity ToolsListed
Weakness

CWE details

CWE-79

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