CVE-2023-3823

What it is

In PHP versions 8.0.* before 8.0.30, 8.1.* before 8.1.22, and 8.2.* before 8.2.8 various XML functions rely on libxml global state to track configuration variables, like whether external entities are loaded. This state is assumed to be unchanged unless the user explicitly changes it by calling appropriate function. However, since the state is process-global, other modules - such as ImageMagick - may also use this library within the same process, and change that global state for their internal purposes, and leave it in a state where external entities loading is enabled. This can lead to the situation where external XML is parsed with external entities loaded, which can lead to disclosure of any local files accessible to PHP. This vulnerable state may persist in the same process across many requests, until the process is shut down.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in. High risk of data exposure.

Exploit odds

1.6% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2023-08-11 06:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 06:14 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 1.6% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 8.6 HIGH (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2023-08-11 06:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 06:14 UTC

Exploit probability

1.6% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-611 · XML external entity

Record status

Modified

Affected

• PHP < 8.0.30
• PHP < 8.1.22
• PHP < 8.2.9
• Fedoraproject Fedora 38
• Debian Linux 10.0

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 8.6

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

Low

Availability

Low

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2023-3823.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-3823. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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