CVE-2020-14332: Ansible Engine module_args Sensitive Data Exposure
Summary
CVE-2020-14332: A flaw was found in the Ansible Engine when using module_args. Affects ansible across 2 version ranges.
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.14
>= 2.9.0, < 2.9.12
Fixed in 2.8.14 or 2.9.12, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- ansible · Alpine:v3.10
The same CVE-2020-14332 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
Ansible Engine is an open-source automation platform that allows users to automate IT tasks such as configuration management, application deployment, and orchestration. It provides a simple and powerful way to automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and improve productivity. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Ansible Engine related to the handling of module_args. This vulnerability can lead to the exposure of sensitive data and unauthorized access to this data.
Vulnerability Detail
The flaw in Ansible Engine occurs when using module_args. When tasks are executed in check mode (--check-mode), sensitive data exposed in the event data is not properly neutralized. This means that unauthorized users can read this data, potentially compromising the confidentiality of the system. The vulnerability affects versions 2.8.0 to 2.8.14 and 2.9.0 to 2.9.12 of the Ansible package.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 14.5.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "ansible==14.5.0"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.142.8.14pip install --upgrade "ansible==2.8.14" -
>= 2.9.0, < 2.9.122.9.12pip install --upgrade "ansible==2.9.12"
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. It is advised to apply the fix by upgrading to the patched versions of Ansible.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Ansible Engine related to module_args can result in the exposure of sensitive data and unauthorized access. It is crucial to upgrade to the fixed versions of Ansible (2.8.15 or later for versions 2.8.0 to 2.8.14, and 2.9.13 or later for versions 2.9.0 to 2.9.12) to ensure the security and confidentiality of your system. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Ansible Engine is an open-source automation platform used for configuration management, application deployment, and orchestration.
module_args is a parameter used in Ansible tasks to pass arguments to modules. It allows users to customize the behavior of modules.
Check mode is a feature in Ansible that allows users to simulate the execution of tasks without making any changes. It is often used for testing and validation purposes.
This vulnerability can lead to the exposure of sensitive data in Ansible event data. Unauthorized users can read this data, potentially compromising the confidentiality of the system.
You can use the Vulert playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your Ansible version is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your Pipfile.lock and it will alert you in real-time.
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