CVE Catalog

Actively exploited in the wild

WhatsApp Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability

Meta Platforms - WhatsApp · Listed in the CISA KEV since 2022-05-23. This indicates confirmed attacks in production environments.

Required action: Apply updates per vendor instructions.

CVE-2019-18426

HighCVSS 8.2KEV
Published: Updated: Translated: NVD NIST

Summary

A vulnerability in WhatsApp Desktop versions prior to 0.3.9309 when paired with WhatsApp for iPhone versions prior to 2.20.10 allows cross-site scripting and local file reading. Exploiting the vulnerability requires the victim to click a link preview from a specially crafted text message.

Risk Assessment

An attacker could execute malicious code in the context of the application and read local files from the victim, potentially leading to leakage of sensitive data. The risk is especially relevant for users who click unknown links in messages.

Recommendation

Update WhatsApp Desktop to version 0.3.9309 or later and WhatsApp for iPhone to version 2.20.10 or later. Instruct users not to click suspicious link previews in messages.

Related vulnerabilities

Original NVD description (English source)

A vulnerability in WhatsApp Desktop versions prior to 0.3.9309 when paired with WhatsApp for iPhone versions prior to 2.20.10 allows cross-site scripting and local file reading. Exploiting the vulnerability requires the victim to click a link preview from a specially crafted text message.

Vulnerability data from NVD (NIST) · CISA KEV · EPSS