Information Disclosure Vulnerability in curl Package: CVE-2020-8169
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2020-8169: curl 7.62.0 through 7.70.0 is vulnerable to an information disclosure vulnerability that can lead to a partial password being leaked over the network and to the DNS server(s). Affects curl versions < 7.66.0-r1. Fixed in 7.66.0-r1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The curl package is a widely used command-line tool and library for transferring data with URLs. It supports various protocols including HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, and more. curl is essential for developers and system administrators for tasks such as downloading files, testing APIs, and automating web interactions. However, versions of curl from 7.62.0 to 7.70.0 are vulnerable to an information disclosure issue that can expose sensitive data.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2020-8169, allows an attacker to potentially leak a partial password over the network and to DNS servers. This issue arises from improper handling of certain data during the data transfer process. If exploited, it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, making it critical for users to address this vulnerability promptly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
7.66.0-r1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade curlTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider restricting access to sensitive data and monitoring network traffic for unusual activity as a temporary measure. Additionally, avoid using curl for transferring sensitive information until the vulnerability is addressed.
Conclusion
CVE-2020-8169 is a significant vulnerability affecting the curl package, which can lead to information disclosure. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched versions to safeguard sensitive information and maintain the integrity of their applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for curl →
FAQ
CVE-2020-8169 is an information disclosure vulnerability in the curl package that can leak partial passwords over the network.
Versions of curl from 7.62.0 to 7.70.0 are vulnerable to this issue.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score for CVE-2020-8169 is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
If you cannot update curl, restrict access to sensitive data and monitor network traffic for any unusual activity as a temporary workaround.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for curl.
