> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sec1.io/user-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sec1.io/user-docs/4-sast/2-java/unsanitized-user-input-in-xml-external-entity.md).

# Unsanitized user input in XML External Entity

## Overview

* **Rule ID**: `java_lang_xml_external_entity_vulnerability`
* **Applicable Languages**: Java
* **Weakness ID**: CWE-611

## Description

Avoid parsing untrusted data, such as user input, as XML. Such data may include URIs that resolve to resources outside the current context, leading to XML External Entity (XXE) injection. XXE injection occurs when XML input with references to external entities is processed without proper sanitization, potentially allowing attackers to access internal files, cause denial of service, or execute remote code.

## Remediation Guidelines

* **Do not** parse XML input with external entity processing enabled. This prevents attackers from exploiting XXE vulnerabilities.

## References

* [**OWASP XML External Entity (XXE) prevention cheat sheet**](https://cheatsheetseries.owasp.org/cheatsheets/XML_External_Entity_Prevention_Cheat_Sheet.html)
* [**CWE-611: Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference**](https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/611.html)
* [**OWASP Top 10: A05:2021 - Security Misconfiguration**](https://owasp.org/Top10/A05_2021-Security_Misconfiguration/)

## Configuration

To omit this rule during a scan, and to provide you with continuous 24/7 code-level scanning, you can employ our [**SAST TOOL**](https://scopy.sec1.io/login)