CVE-2020-13091 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-13091, a potential command execution vulnerability in pandas through version 1.0.3. Understand the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
Pandas through version 1.0.3 is vulnerable to a potential command execution issue when untrusted files are passed to the read_pickle() function. This vulnerability arises if reduce triggers an os.system call. The validity of this vulnerability is disputed due to the function being documented as unsafe.
Understanding CVE-2020-13091
This CVE involves a potential security risk in the pandas library that could allow the execution of commands from untrusted files.
What is CVE-2020-13091?
The vulnerability in pandas through version 1.0.3 allows for the execution of commands from untrusted files passed to the read_pickle() function, triggered by reduce making an os.system call. However, there is a dispute regarding the severity of this issue as the read_pickle() function is known to be unsafe, placing the responsibility on users to utilize it securely.
The Impact of CVE-2020-13091
The impact of this CVE could lead to unauthorized command execution on systems where untrusted files are processed using the read_pickle() function in pandas.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-13091
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows for the execution of commands from untrusted files passed to the read_pickle() function in pandas through version 1.0.3, if reduce triggers an os.system call.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Systems using pandas library up to version 1.0.3
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited when untrusted files are processed by the read_pickle() function, and reduce makes an os.system call, potentially leading to command execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Avoid using the read_pickle() function with untrusted files
- Regularly update pandas to the latest version
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement input validation mechanisms for file inputs
- Educate users on secure usage of pandas functions
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches or updates provided by the pandas library to mitigate the vulnerability