CVE-2019-18426VulnerabilityPublished 05/23/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2019-18426: WhatsApp Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability

Affects Meta Platforms WhatsAppSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 05/23/2022
KEV deadline: 06/13/2022
EPSS: 67.9% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 99% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2019-18426 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2019-18426 is a high-severity cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting WhatsApp Desktop when paired with WhatsApp for iPhone. This flaw allows an attacker to execute malicious scripts and read local files under certain conditions. The vulnerability has been exploited in the wild. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided.

Summary

This vulnerability in WhatsApp Desktop, when used in conjunction with WhatsApp for iPhone, enables cross-site scripting and local file reading attacks. The issue is identified as CWE-79 and has been observed to be exploited in the wild. No vendor advisory or patch details are available in the provided data.

Impact

Successful exploitation can lead to execution of arbitrary scripts within the context of the WhatsApp Desktop application, potentially allowing attackers to read local files and compromise user data. The vulnerability has been actively exploited, indicating real-world risk.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until an official fix is available, users should exercise caution when interacting with untrusted content on WhatsApp Desktop paired with WhatsApp for iPhone.

Weaknesses

CWE-79Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:40:54 UTC

Weaknesses

References

Related threats