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CVE-2025-54416: Arbitrary Command Execution Vulnerability in tj-actions/branch-names Github Action

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Overview

A severe cybersecurity vulnerability, designated as CVE-2025-54416, has been discovered that concerns Github users, particularly those relying on the tj-actions/branch-names repository. This repository offers Github actions that retrieve branch or tag names, offering support for all event types. The vulnerability is critical, as it enables arbitrary command execution, a possibility that opens up a system to significant security risks. It’s particularly alarming considering the popularity and widespread use of Github actions, making this vulnerability one that demands immediate attention and remediation.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-54416
Severity: Critical (CVSS: 9.1)
Attack Vector: Remote
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage

Affected Products

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Product | Affected Versions

tj-actions/branch-names | Versions 8.2.1 and below

How the Exploit Works

The vulnerability arises because of inconsistent input sanitization and unescaped output in the tj-actions/branch-names’ Github Action workflows. Malicious actors can exploit specially crafted branch names or tags. Despite the internal sanitization mechanisms in place, the action outputs remain vulnerable, leading to potential system compromise or data leakage if exploited.

Conceptual Example Code

The vulnerability could be exploited by using a specially crafted branch name or tag. Conceptually, it can be demonstrated as follows:

$ git branch '; rm -rf /'
$ git push origin '; rm -rf /'

In this conceptual example, a branch name containing a command injection payload (i.e., ‘; rm -rf /’) is created and pushed to the remote repository. When the tj-actions/branch-names Github Action processes this branch name, it may inadvertently execute the injected command, leading to arbitrary command execution.

Mitigation Strategies

Users are strongly advised to update to version 9.0.0 of tj-actions/branch-names, where this vulnerability is patched. For those unable to update immediately, implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as temporary mitigation. This measure can help detect and block potentially malicious payloads in branch or tag names. However, this should be considered only as a temporary solution until the patch can be applied.

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Disclaimer:

The information and code presented in this article are provided for educational and defensive cybersecurity purposes only. Any conceptual or pseudocode examples are simplified representations intended to raise awareness and promote secure development and system configuration practices.

Do not use this information to attempt unauthorized access or exploit vulnerabilities on systems that you do not own or have explicit permission to test.

Ameeba and its authors do not endorse or condone malicious behavior and are not responsible for misuse of the content. Always follow ethical hacking guidelines, responsible disclosure practices, and local laws.

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