CVE-2020-7659 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Reel through 0.6.1 allows Request Smuggling attacks due to incorrect Content-Length and Transfer encoding header parsing. This vulnerability enables attackers to conduct HTTP request smuggling attacks by manipulating headers.

Understanding CVE-2020-7659

This CVE involves a deprecated project, Reel, which is susceptible to Request Smuggling attacks due to parsing issues with certain headers.

What is CVE-2020-7659?

CVE-2020-7659 is a vulnerability in Reel versions up to and including 0.6.1 that allows for Request Smuggling attacks, exploiting incorrect parsing of Content-Length and Transfer encoding headers.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7659

The vulnerability in Reel could lead to HTTP request smuggling attacks, potentially allowing malicious actors to manipulate headers for nefarious purposes.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7659

Reel's vulnerability to Request Smuggling attacks can have significant implications for system security.

Vulnerability Description

Reel through version 0.6.1 is susceptible to Request Smuggling attacks due to incorrect parsing of Content-Length and Transfer encoding headers.
Attackers can exploit this flaw by sending the Content-Length header twice, enabling HTTP request smuggling.
Invalid Transfer Encoding headers are parsed as valid, opening the door to TE:CL smuggling attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Reel
Vendor: Not applicable
Affected Versions: All versions including 0.6.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate headers to conduct HTTP request smuggling attacks, taking advantage of the parsing vulnerabilities in Reel.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-7659 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Reel to a patched version or consider alternative solutions.
Monitor and analyze network traffic for any signs of header manipulation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and update dependencies to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Educate developers and administrators on secure header parsing practices.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches for Reel to address the Request Smuggling vulnerability.