Vulnerability Description
GeoNetwork is a catalog application to manage spatially referenced resources. Prior to versions 4.4.12 and 4.2.17, the Saxon XSLT processor used to render formatters is configured without secure processing (`FEATURE_SECURE_PROCESSING`) and without disabling Java extension functions (`ALLOW_EXTERNAL_FUNCTIONS`). Any stylesheet loaded by GeoNetwork can therefore invoke `java.lang.Runtime.exec()` or `java.lang.ProcessBuilder` directly, achieving arbitrary command execution as the GeoNetwork process user. A user with sufficient privileges to upload a formatter can deliver a `.xsl` file containing Java extension call that execute arbitrary OS commands with the privileges of the GeoNetwork process. The issue is patched in GeoNetwork versions 4.4.12 and 4.2.17.
CVSS Score
CRITICAL
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://docs.geonetwork-opensource.org/4.2/overview/change-log/version-4.2.17
- https://docs.geonetwork-opensource.org/4.4/overview/change-log/version-4.4.12
- https://github.com/geonetwork/core-geonetwork/security/advisories/GHSA-x898-729x
- https://thehackernews.com/2026/09/geonetwork-fixes-unauthenticated-rce.html
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-58400?
CVE-2026-58400 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 9.1 (CRITICAL). GeoNetwork is a catalog application to manage spatially referenced resources. Prior to versions 4.4.12 and 4.2.17, the Saxon XSLT processor used to render formatters is configured without secure proce...
How severe is CVE-2026-58400?
CVE-2026-58400 has been rated CRITICAL with a CVSS base score of 9.1/10. This is considered a critical vulnerability requiring immediate attention.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-58400?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Review vendor security bulletins for remediation guidance.