CVE-2016-5851 — python-docx before 0.8.6 allows context-dependent attackers to conduct XML External Entity (XXE) attacks via a crafted document

Matched remediation archetype

XML external entity and unsafe XML processing

This catalog composition supplies bounded fallback guidance. Explicitly reviewed curated workflows load with the complete record below.

Check exposure

• Inventory XML parsers used by APIs, file imports, office or image formats, identity protocols, feeds, and background jobs.
• Determine whether document type declarations, external entities, XInclude, schemas, or network resolvers are enabled.
• Map parser filesystem and network access and the sensitivity of documents it processes.

Remediate safely

• Configure each parser to reject document type declarations and disable external entity, XInclude, and network resolution features.
• Prefer a data format or hardened parser that does not support external resolution, and apply input size and depth limits.
• Update affected XML libraries and centralize secure parser construction so callers cannot silently override it.