CVE-2020-15185

CVE-2020-15185 is a low-severity vulnerability in Helm with a CVSS 3.x base score of 2.2. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-74.

Key facts

Description

In Helm before versions 2.16.11 and 3.3.2, a Helm repository can contain duplicates of the same chart, with the last one always used. If a repository is compromised, this lowers the level of access that an attacker needs to inject a bad chart into a repository. To perform this attack, an attacker must have write access to the index file (which can occur during a MITM attack on a non-SSL connection). This issue has been patched in Helm 3.3.2 and 2.16.11. A possible workaround is to manually review the index file in the Helm repository cache before installing software.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2020-15185?
In Helm before versions 2.16.11 and 3.3.2, a Helm repository can contain duplicates of the same chart, with the last one always used. If a repository is compromised, this lowers the level of access that an attacker needs to inject a bad chart into a repository. To perform this attack, an attacker must have write access to the index file (which can occur during a MITM attack on a non-SSL connection). This issue has been patched in Helm 3.3.2 and 2.16.11. A possible workaround is to manually review the index file in the Helm repository cache before installing software.
How severe is CVE-2020-15185?
CVE-2020-15185 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 2.2, rated low severity. It is exploitable over network with high attack complexity, requires high privileges and no user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is none, integrity low, and availability none.
Is CVE-2020-15185 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 1% (55th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2020-15185?
CVE-2020-15185 affects Helm. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.
How do I fix CVE-2020-15185?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround.
When was CVE-2020-15185 published?
CVE-2020-15185 was published on 2020-09-17 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (1)

More vulnerabilities in Helm

All CVEs affecting Helm →

Other CWE-74 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements (Injection)) vulnerabilities

Browse all CWE-74 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements (Injection)) vulnerabilities →