xml-crypto Vulnerable to XML Signature Verification Bypass via DigestValue Comment
Date: 2025-03
Affected: npm/xml-crypto, npm/xml-crypto, npm/xml-crypto
Attack vector: auth-bypass
Category: vulnerability-disclosure
Severity: Critical
CVE: CVE-2025-29774
CVE-2025-29775
CWE: CWE-347

# Impact An attacker may be able to exploit this vulnerability to bypass authentication or authorization mechanisms in systems that rely on xml-crypto for verifying signed XML documents. The vulnerability allows an attacker to modify a valid signed XML message in a way that still passes signature verification checks. For example, it could be used to alter critical identity or access control attributes, enabling an attacker to escalate privileges or impersonate another user. # Patches All versions <= 6.0.0 are affected. Please upgrade to version 6.0.1. If you are still using v2.x or v3.x please upgrade to the associated patch version. # Indicators of Compromise When logging XML payloads, check for the following indicators. If the payload includes encrypted elements, ensure you analyze the decrypted version for a complete assessment. (If encryption is not used, analyze the original XML document directly). This applies to various XML-based authentication and authorization flows, such as SAML Response payloads. ### Presence of Comments in `DigestValue` A `DigestValue` should **not** contain comments. If you find comments within it, this may indicate tampering. **Example of a compromised `DigestValue`:** ```xml <DigestValue> <!--TBlYWE0ZWM4ODI1NjliYzE3NmViN2E1OTlkOGDhhNmI=--> c7RuVDYo83z2su5uk0Nla8DXcXvKYKgf7tZklJxL/LZ= </DigestValue> ``` ### Code to test Pass in the decrypted version of the document ```js decryptedDocument = ... // yours to implement const digest


Mitigations:

Architectural layers (MAESTRO):