Vulnerability Description
Bio-Formats versions up to and including 8.3.0 contain an XML External Entity (XXE) vulnerability in the Leica Microsystems metadata parsing component (e.g., XLEF). The parser uses an insecurely configured DocumentBuilderFactory when processing Leica XML-based metadata files, allowing external entity expansion and external DTD loading. A crafted metadata file can trigger outbound network requests (SSRF), access local system resources where readable, or cause a denial of service during XML parsing.
CVSS Score
HIGH
Affected Products
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Openmicroscopy | Bio-Formats | <= 8.3.0 |
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://docs.openmicroscopy.org/bio-formats/Release Notes
- https://github.com/ome/bioformats/security/advisories/GHSA-x9vc-qh97-8gjp
- https://seclists.org/fulldisclosure/2026/Jan/6Mailing List
- https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/bio-formats-xxe-in-leica-xlef-metadata-parsThird Party Advisory
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-22186?
CVE-2026-22186 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.1 (HIGH). Bio-Formats versions up to and including 8.3.0 contain an XML External Entity (XXE) vulnerability in the Leica Microsystems metadata parsing component (e.g., XLEF). The parser uses an insecurely confi...
How severe is CVE-2026-22186?
CVE-2026-22186 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.1/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-22186?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Openmicroscopy Bio-Formats.