CVE-2019-0228

CVE-2019-0228 is a critical-severity vulnerability in Apache Pdfbox with a CVSS 3.x base score of 9.8. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-611.

Key facts

Description

Apache PDFBox 2.0.14 does not properly initialize the XML parser, which allows context-dependent attackers to conduct XML External Entity (XXE) attacks via a crafted XFDF.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2019-0228?
Apache PDFBox 2.0.14 does not properly initialize the XML parser, which allows context-dependent attackers to conduct XML External Entity (XXE) attacks via a crafted XFDF.
How severe is CVE-2019-0228?
CVE-2019-0228 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 9.8, rated critical severity. It is exploitable over network with low attack complexity, requires no privileges and no user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity high, and availability high.
Is CVE-2019-0228 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 9% (95th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2019-0228?
CVE-2019-0228 primarily affects Apache Pdfbox. In total, 32 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2019-0228?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its critical severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2019-0228 published?
CVE-2019-0228 was published on 2019-04-17 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (32)

More vulnerabilities in Apache Pdfbox

All CVEs affecting Apache Pdfbox →

Other CWE-611 (Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference (XXE)) vulnerabilities

Browse all CWE-611 (Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference (XXE)) vulnerabilities →