XPath Injection Scanner
Detects XPath injection vulnerabilities in XML data queries.
What is XPath Injection?
XPath Injection occurs when untrusted user input is incorporated into XPath queries used to navigate and extract data from XML documents. Attackers can manipulate XPath expressions to bypass authentication, access unauthorized data, or extract the entire XML document structure.
Why is This Important?
Many applications use XML for data storage and configuration, including SAML authentication flows, SOAP services, and configuration files. XPath injection can expose all data in an XML document, bypass authentication systems, and in some cases lead to further exploitation.
How It Works
1. Input Discovery
Maps all user input points including forms, headers, cookies, and API parameters for injection testing.
2. Injection Testing
Executes sophisticated injection payloads designed to bypass filters and WAFs while detecting vulnerabilities.
3. Exploitation Validation
Confirms vulnerabilities through safe exploitation, providing proof-of-concept and impact assessment.
Key Capabilities
Advanced injection detection engine combining signature-based and AI-powered analysis for comprehensive coverage.
- Multi-vector injection testing across all input types
- WAF and filter bypass techniques built-in
- Database-specific payload optimization
- Out-of-band detection for blind vulnerabilities
- Automated proof-of-concept generation
Frequently Asked Questions
How is XPath injection similar to SQL injection?
Both involve manipulating query syntax through user input. XPath injection uses similar techniques: injecting quotes to break out of strings, adding OR conditions for tautologies, and using comment-like constructs. The key difference is XPath queries XML hierarchies rather than relational tables.
What can attackers extract with XPath injection?
Attackers can potentially extract the entire XML document using techniques like blind XPath injection. This includes any data stored in the XML: user credentials, configuration settings, business data, and document structure. They can also bypass authentication checks.
Is XPath injection still relevant today?
Yes, particularly in SOAP web services, SAML implementations, and applications using XML for data storage. While JSON has replaced XML in many contexts, enterprise applications and legacy systems still heavily rely on XML and XPath.
How do I prevent XPath injection?
Use parameterized XPath queries when available, implement strict input validation, escape special XPath characters (' " [ ] and whitespace), consider using XML schema validation, and prefer safer query methods that separate data from query logic.
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