CVE-2020-12480 : What You Need to Know

Play Framework 2.6.0 through 2.8.1 is vulnerable to a CSRF filter bypass through specific CORS requests.

Understanding CVE-2020-12480

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Play Framework versions 2.6.0 through 2.8.1 that allows the CSRF filter to be bypassed.

What is CVE-2020-12480?

In Play Framework 2.6.0 through 2.8.1, the CSRF filter can be bypassed by making CORS simple requests with content types that contain parameters that can't be parsed.

The Impact of CVE-2020-12480

This vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to bypass CSRF protection mechanisms, leading to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of a user.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-12480

Play Framework versions 2.6.0 through 2.8.1 are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The CSRF filter in these versions can be circumvented by sending specific CORS requests with unparsable parameters in the content types.

Affected Systems and Versions

Play Framework 2.6.0 through 2.8.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting CORS requests with certain content types that contain parameters the system cannot parse, allowing them to bypass CSRF protection.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Play Framework to a non-vulnerable version if available.
Implement additional security measures to mitigate CSRF attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update security patches for Play Framework.
Conduct security audits and testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Play Framework to fix the CSRF filter bypass vulnerability.