CVE-2019-18426: WhatsApp Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability

CVE-2019-18426 · Severity: critical · CVSS 8.2 · Exploited in the wild · Published 2022-05-23

A cross-site scripting (XSS) and local file reading vulnerability exists in WhatsApp Desktop when paired with WhatsApp for iPhone. The flaw is triggered when a victim clicks a link preview from a specially crafted text message, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code or access local files.

Technologies: Meta Platforms WhatsApp. Vendors: Meta Platforms.

Quick answers

Is CVE-2019-18426 exploited in the wild?
Yes. CVE-2019-18426 is known to be exploited in the wild, first recorded on 23 May 2022. Treat it as urgent.
How severe is CVE-2019-18426?
Critical severity, with a CVSS score of 8.2, published 23 May 2022.
Which products and versions are affected?
WhatsApp WhatsApp Desktop prior to 0.3.9309; WhatsApp WhatsApp for iPhone prior to 2.20.10.
Is there a fix for CVE-2019-18426?
No fixed version is recorded yet. Check the vendor's advisory in the references below. If you run it, Junglewise drafts a mitigation that fits your setup and applies it once you approve, with senior security engineers behind it.
How is CVE-2019-18426 attacked?
It is attacked over the network, in a network appliance.
Am I affected by CVE-2019-18426?
Check whether you run Meta Platforms WhatsApp. Junglewise does that check for you around the clock: connect your code, cloud and domains, and it matches new vulnerabilities like this one against what you actually run and tells you when one reaches you.

Affected products

  • WhatsApp WhatsApp Desktop prior to 0.3.9309
  • WhatsApp WhatsApp for iPhone prior to 2.20.10

Timeline

  • 2020-01-21: disclosed: NVD Published Date
  • 2022-05-23: kev added: Date added to CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog

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