CVE-2025-68493CWE-611

Apache Struts, Apache Struts: XXE vulnerability in outdated XWork component

High · published January 11, 2026

CVSS v3.1
8.1
EPSS
46%
Percentile
98.8
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚡ A missing XML validation issue in Apache Struts is like a bouncer who forgets to check IDs at the club entrance – anyone could sneak in! This vulnerability allows untrusted XML data to be processed unchecked, just as a restaurant might serve a dish without verifying the ingredients on the menu. If there’s a hidden allergen, it could lead to chaos in the kitchen! An attacker could exploit this flaw to send malicious XML, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation. This could result in a breach that exposes sensitive information, leaving your systems defenseless and putting customer trust at risk.

Put simply

This vulnerability allows untrusted XML data to be processed unchecked, just as a restaurant might serve a dish without verifying the ingredients on the menu. If there’s a hidden allergen, it could lead to chaos in the kitchen! The missing XML validation in the affected versions of Apache Struts allows attackers to craft malicious XML payloads. When processed, these payloads can bypass security controls, leading to severe consequences.

What to do

An attacker could exploit this flaw to send malicious XML, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation. This could result in a breach that exposes sensitive information, leaving your systems defenseless and putting customer trust at risk. Upgrade to Apache Struts version 6.1.1 immediately to close this vulnerability. Additionally, review your XML handling practices to ensure proper validation of incoming data to prevent similar issues in the future. You've got this! Following the upgrade steps will help you secure your application and keep your users safe. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
8.1 · HIGH
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.45847 · 98.8th percentile
Weakness
CWE-611 · Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference
Published
2026-01-11T13:05Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 11 JAN 13:05Z
    Apache Struts, Apache Struts: XXE vulnerability in outdated XWork component
    cvelistv5