CVE-2020-5405 : What You Need to Know

Spring Cloud Config, versions 2.2.x prior to 2.2.2, and versions 2.1.x prior to 2.1.7, allow a directory traversal attack through the spring-cloud-config-server module.

Understanding CVE-2020-5405

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Spring Cloud Config that enables malicious users to exploit a directory traversal flaw.

What is CVE-2020-5405?

CVE-2020-5405 is a security vulnerability in Spring Cloud Config that allows attackers to serve arbitrary configuration files through the spring-cloud-config-server module by sending specially crafted URLs.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5405

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious users to perform directory traversal attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive files and data.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5405

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Spring Cloud Config versions 2.2.x before 2.2.2 and versions 2.1.x before 2.1.7 allows applications to serve arbitrary configuration files, enabling a directory traversal attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Spring Cloud Config
Vendor: Spring by VMware
Versions Affected:
2.2 (prior to 2.2.2)
2.1 (prior to 2.1.7)

Exploitation Mechanism

A malicious user or attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted URL request to the spring-cloud-config-server module, allowing them to traverse directories and potentially access unauthorized files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5405 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Spring Cloud Config to versions 2.2.2 or 2.1.7, which contain fixes for the vulnerability.
Implement strict input validation to prevent malicious input from reaching the application.
Monitor and analyze incoming requests for suspicious patterns that may indicate an attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Spring by VMware promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.