CVE-2020-36563 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2020-36563 involves a weak hash (SHA-1) vulnerability in github.com/RobotsAndPencils/go-saml, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate inputs to cause hash collisions.

Understanding CVE-2020-36563

What is CVE-2020-36563?

This CVE identifies a security issue in the XML Digital Signatures generated and validated by the 'github.com/RobotsAndPencils/go-saml' package, which uses the vulnerable SHA-1 hashing algorithm.

The Impact of CVE-2020-36563

The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to create specific inputs that lead to hash collisions, compromising the integrity of digital signatures and potentially enabling unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-36563

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the use of the weak SHA-1 hash algorithm in generating and validating XML Digital Signatures, opening the door to potential hash collision attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: github.com/RobotsAndPencils/go-saml
Product: github.com/RobotsAndPencils/go-saml
Affected Program Routines: AuthnRequest.Validate, NewAuthnRequest, NewSignedResponse, ServiceProviderSettings.GetAuthnRequest

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate inputs to create hash collisions due to the use of the vulnerable SHA-1 hash algorithm in the package.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or replace the use of SHA-1 with stronger hashing algorithms.
Monitor for any unusual activities that might indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices and use up-to-date cryptographic algorithms.
Regularly update dependencies and libraries to address known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches or updates provided by the vendor to eliminate the vulnerability and enhance the security of the affected systems.