CVE-2019-20478 : Security Advisory and Response

Developers who are unaware of the recommended usage of methods like safe_load in certain cases may face a remote code execution vulnerability when calling the load method in ruamel.yaml versions up to 0.16.7.

Understanding CVE-2019-20478

In ruamel.yaml through 0.16.7, the load method allows remote code execution if the application calls this method with an untrusted argument. This issue affects developers who are unaware of the need to use methods such as safe_load in these use cases.

What is CVE-2019-20478?

CVE-2019-20478 is a vulnerability in ruamel.yaml versions up to 0.16.7 that can lead to remote code execution when the load method is called with untrusted arguments.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20478

This vulnerability can result in remote code execution, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious code on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20478

Vulnerability Description

Developers may unknowingly trigger remote code execution by calling the load method with untrusted arguments in ruamel.yaml versions up to 0.16.7.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vulnerable versions: ruamel.yaml up to 0.16.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the arguments passed to the load method, leading to the execution of unauthorized code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to a patched version of ruamel.yaml that addresses this vulnerability.
Avoid passing untrusted arguments to the load method.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software libraries and dependencies to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in the future.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches and updates to address known vulnerabilities.