CVE-2020-25825 in Octopus Deploy
Summary
by MITRE • 10/13/2020
In Octopus Deploy 3.1.0 to 2020.4.0, certain scripts can reveal sensitive information to the user in the task logs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-25825 affects Octopus Deploy versions ranging from 3.1.0 through 2020.4.0, representing a significant information disclosure weakness within the deployment automation platform. This issue stems from the improper handling of sensitive data within task execution logs, where scripts executed as part of deployment processes may inadvertently expose confidential information to users with appropriate access permissions. The flaw exists in the logging mechanism that captures and displays script outputs, creating an attack surface where unauthorized information exposure can occur during routine deployment operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the task logging subsystem where script execution results are recorded and subsequently displayed to users. When deployment scripts contain sensitive data such as database credentials, API keys, or other confidential information, the logging mechanism fails to sanitize or filter this data before presenting it in the user interface or log files. This represents a classic information disclosure vulnerability that aligns with CWE-200, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information to unauthorized actors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it occurs during normal operational procedures rather than as a result of malicious attacks, making it more difficult to detect and remediate.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-25825 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it can compromise the security posture of entire deployment environments. When deployment logs contain sensitive information, they create opportunities for privilege escalation attacks where unauthorized users might gain access to credentials or other confidential data. This vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including privilege escalation, lateral movement, and credential theft, all of which fall under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1078 and T1566 categories. The exposure of sensitive information in task logs can lead to unauthorized access to production systems, data breaches, and compliance violations that may result in significant financial and reputational damage.
Organizations utilizing affected versions of Octopus Deploy face substantial security risks when this vulnerability remains unaddressed. The exposure of credentials and sensitive data in logs creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by both internal and external adversaries. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that deployment automation platforms like Octopus Deploy typically operate with elevated privileges, making any information disclosure potentially catastrophic. Security teams should implement immediate mitigations including log sanitization procedures, access controls, and regular monitoring of deployment logs for sensitive data exposure. The recommended remediation involves upgrading to versions of Octopus Deploy that have addressed this information disclosure vulnerability, as well as implementing comprehensive logging policies that prevent sensitive data from being captured or displayed in any user-accessible logs.