CVE-2020-7646 in curlrequest
Summary
by MITRE
curlrequest through 1.0.1 allows execution of arbitrary commands.It is possible to inject arbitrary commands by using a semicolon char in any of the `options` values.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-7646 affects curlrequest versions through 1.0.1 and represents a critical command injection flaw that enables arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the library's handling of command-line options. The flaw specifically manifests when a semicolon character is present in any of the `options` values passed to the curlrequest functionality, creating a pathway for malicious command injection attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parsing of user-supplied input within the curlrequest library. When a semicolon character is included in any option value, it is interpreted as a command separator by the underlying shell execution mechanism. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of input validation and proper command execution isolation. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to append additional commands to the executed curl request, effectively bypassing normal input sanitization measures.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to systems utilizing curlrequest for HTTP communication. An attacker who can influence any of the option values in curlrequest calls can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running the curlrequest process. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within a network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications where user input flows into curlrequest parameters, as it transforms a simple HTTP library call into a potential attack vector for remote code execution. The attack surface is broad since curlrequest is commonly used in various applications including web scrapers, API clients, and automation tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-7646 should focus on immediate patching of affected curlrequest versions to 1.0.2 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should implement strict input sanitization measures at all application layers where curlrequest is used, particularly validating and escaping semicolon characters in option values. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. Additionally, monitoring for unusual command execution patterns and implementing proper access controls for curlrequest usage can provide defensive layers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, emphasizing the need for proper input validation and secure coding methodologies in all software development processes.