CVE-2020-8827: Improper Restriction of Excessive Authentication Attempts in Argo API
Summary
CVE-2020-8827: Improper Restriction of Excessive Authentication Attempts in Argo API. Affects github.com/argoproj/argo-cd versions < 1.5.1. Fixed in 1.5.1. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- argo-cd · Bitnami
The same CVE-2020-8827 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
The Argo API is a component of the Argo CD project, written in Go. It provides functionality for managing continuous deployment of applications to Kubernetes clusters. The Argo CD util/cache package is responsible for caching operations and improving performance. However, versions up to 1.5.0 of the package do not implement proper anti-automation measures, such as rate limiting or account lockouts, leaving it vulnerable to brute force attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2020-8827) in the Argo CD util/cache package allows attackers to submit an unlimited number of authentication attempts without any consequences. This lack of anti-bruteforce measures makes it easier for attackers to guess valid credentials and gain unauthorized access to the Argo API. The impact of this vulnerability can be severe, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and disruption of the deployment process.
How To Fix
Latest published version: v1.8.7 as of 22 Oct 2026
go get github.com/argoproj/argo-cd@v1.8.7Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.5.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
go get github.com/argoproj/argo-cd@v1.5.1Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a workaround, until the package is updated, it is advisable to implement additional security measures at the network level, such as IP whitelisting or implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to detect and block suspicious authentication attempts. These measures can help mitigate the risk of brute force attacks while waiting for the package update.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the Argo CD util/cache package exposes the Argo API to brute force attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data breaches. It is crucial to update the package to version 1.5.1 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Implementing additional security measures at the network level can provide temporary protection while waiting for the package update. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for github.com/argoproj/argo-cd →
FAQ
The Argo API is a component of the Argo CD project, providing functionality for managing continuous deployment of applications to Kubernetes clusters.
The vulnerability allows attackers to submit unlimited authentication attempts, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and disruption of the deployment process.
To fix this vulnerability, update the Argo CD util/cache package to version 1.5.1 or later, which implements proper anti-automation measures.
As a temporary workaround, implement additional security measures at the network level, such as IP whitelisting or using a Web Application Firewall (WAF).
For more information about the vulnerability, you can refer to the CVE-2020-8827 advisory or contact the Argo CD project team.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for github.com/argoproj/argo-cd.
