CVE-2020-13956 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-13956 affecting Apache HttpClient versions prior to 4.5.13 and 5.0.3. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability.
Apache HttpClient versions prior to 4.5.13 and 5.0.3 can misinterpret malformed authority components in request URIs, leading to the selection of the wrong target host for request execution.
Understanding CVE-2020-13956
Apache HttpClient versions prior to 4.5.13 and 5.0.3 are susceptible to a vulnerability that can result in incorrect target host selection during request execution.
What is CVE-2020-13956?
This CVE refers to a vulnerability in Apache HttpClient versions prior to 4.5.13 and 5.0.3 that can cause the library to misinterpret malformed authority components in request URIs, potentially leading to the selection of the wrong target host for request execution.
The Impact of CVE-2020-13956
The vulnerability can be exploited to redirect requests to unintended hosts, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data leakage, or other security breaches.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-13956
Apache HttpClient versions prior to 4.5.13 and 5.0.3 are affected by a vulnerability that can result in the misinterpretation of malformed authority components in request URIs.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from the library misinterpreting malformed authority components in request URIs, causing it to select the wrong target host for request execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Apache HttpClient
- Versions Affected: 4.5.12 and prior, 5.0.2 and prior
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can craft malicious requests with malformed authority components, tricking the library into selecting an unintended target host for request execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-13956, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Apache HttpClient to version 4.5.13 or 5.0.3 to patch the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity indicating exploitation of the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software components to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network security measures to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by Apache HttpClient to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2020-13956.