CVE-2023-27581

What it is

github-slug-action is a GitHub Action to expose slug value of GitHub environment variables inside of one's GitHub workflow. Starting in version 4.0.0` and prior to version 4.4.1, this action uses the `github.head_ref` parameter in an insecure way. This vulnerability can be triggered by any user on GitHub on any workflow using the action on pull requests. They just need to create a pull request with a branch name, which can contain the attack payload. This can be used to execute code on the GitHub runners and to exfiltrate any secrets one uses in the CI pipeline. A patched action is available in version 4.4.1. No workaround is available.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network with a low-privilege account. High risk of data exposure, data tampering, service disruption.

Exploit odds

1.6% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2023-03-13 21:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 05:45 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 1.6% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 8.8 HIGH (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2023-03-13 21:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 05:45 UTC

Exploit probability

1.6% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-77 · Command injection

Record status

Modified

Affected

• github-slug-action Project github-slug-action < 4.4.1

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 8.8

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

High

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2023-27581.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-27581. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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