GitHub CLI - Execution of Arbitrary Git Binary

github.com/cli/cli Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

11/02/2022

Disclosed on

MODERATE

Severity

Yes i

Fix available

Moderate

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

GHSA-fqfh-778m-2v32: GitHub CLI can execute a git binary from the current directory. Affects github.com/cli/cli versions < 1.2.1. Fixed in 1.2.1. How to fix ↓

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Background

GitHub CLI is a command-line tool that provides an interface to GitHub repositories and services. It is written in Go and allows users to perform various Git operations and interact with GitHub from the command line. This vulnerability affects GitHub CLI versions prior to v1.2.1 on Windows systems.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in GitHub CLI arises from its dependency on a git.exe executable found in the system %PATH% on Windows. When running gh command, if a malicious .\git.exe or .\git.bat file is present in the current working directory, it will be executed instead of the legitimate system command. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary commands, potentially allowing an attacker to compromise the system or perform unauthorized actions. Windows users who run gh inside untrusted directories are affected by this vulnerability.

How To Fix

Latest published version: v1.14.0 as of 22 Oct 2026

go get github.com/cli/cli@v1.14.0

Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.

If you need the minimum change

1.2.1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

go get github.com/cli/cli@v1.2.1

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround for this vulnerability other than avoiding running gh command inside untrusted directories. Users should exercise caution and ensure that the current working directory does not contain any malicious .\git.exe or .\git.bat files.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in GitHub CLI allows for the execution of arbitrary commands if a malicious git.exe or git.bat file is present in the current working directory. Users should upgrade to GitHub CLI v1.2.1 or later to fix this vulnerability. It is also important to exercise caution and avoid running gh command inside untrusted directories. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for github.com/cli/cli →