CVE-2019-20786: Improper authentication in github.com/pion/dtls
Summary
CVE-2019-20786: Improper authentication in github.com/pion/dtls. Affects github.com/pion/dtls versions < 1.5.2. Fixed in 1.5.2. How to fix ↓
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Background
The github.com/pion/dtls package is a Go library that provides Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) support. DTLS is a protocol that provides communication security for datagram protocols, such as User Datagram Protocol (UDP). The package includes functionality for establishing secure connections, handling incoming packets, and supporting both client and server roles. However, a vulnerability has been identified in the package that allows for improper authentication, potentially leading to the injection of arbitrary data.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in github.com/pion/dtls arises from the improper verification of packets after the initial handshake. This means that unencrypted packets containing application data can be accepted, even though they should be rejected. An attacker can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary data into the communication, which will be treated as encrypted data by the client/server, despite not knowing the session key. This can lead to various security issues, such as unauthorized access, data manipulation, or even remote code execution.
How To Fix
Latest published version: v1.5.4 as of 23 Oct 2026
go get github.com/pion/dtls@v1.5.4Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.5.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
go get github.com/pion/dtls@v1.5.2Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update the package to the fixed version as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the github.com/pion/dtls package is vulnerable to improper authentication, allowing for the injection of arbitrary data. To mitigate this vulnerability, developers should update their applications to use the fixed version of the package (1.5.2 or later). For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for github.com/pion/dtls →
FAQ
github.com/pion/dtls is a Go library that provides Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) support for secure communication over datagram protocols like UDP.
This vulnerability allows an attacker to inject arbitrary data into the communication, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or remote code execution.
To fix this vulnerability, update the github.com/pion/dtls package to version 1.5.2 or later.
No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Updating the package to the fixed version is the recommended solution.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the Open Source Vulnerability database at https://pkg.go.dev/vuln/GO-2020-0038.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for github.com/pion/dtls.
