CVE-2020-15502 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

DuckDuckGo application for Android and iOS may expose visit data to a Potentially Unwanted Endpoint through .ico requests.

Understanding CVE-2020-15502

The vulnerability in DuckDuckGo's mobile applications could lead to privacy concerns due to data exposure.

What is CVE-2020-15502?

The DuckDuckGo app on Android (up to version 5.58.0) and iOS (up to version 7.47.1.0) sends website hostnames via .ico requests to duckduckgo.com servers, potentially compromising user visit data.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15502

The vulnerability may allow temporary exposure of user visit data to an unintended endpoint, raising privacy risks.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15502

Details about the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The DuckDuckGo app sends hostnames of visited websites through .ico requests to servers in the duckduckgo.com domain, potentially exposing user visit data.

Affected Systems and Versions

DuckDuckGo app for Android up to version 5.58.0
DuckDuckGo app for iOS up to version 7.47.1.0

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending HTTPS .ico requests to DuckDuckGo servers, user visit data can be accessed temporarily, posing a privacy risk.

Mitigation and Prevention

Ways to address and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the DuckDuckGo app to the latest version.
Avoid visiting sensitive websites until the issue is resolved.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review app permissions and privacy settings.
Use VPN services for enhanced privacy protection.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from DuckDuckGo.