CVE-2020-15251
Published: April 11, 2026
Official Description
In the Channelmgnt plug-in for Sopel (a Python IRC bot) before version 1.0.3, malicious users are able to op/voice and take over a channel. This is an ACL bypass vulnerability. This plugin is bundled with MirahezeBot-Plugins with versions from 9.0.0 and less than 9.0.2 affected. Version 9.0.2 includes 1.0.3 of channelmgnt, and thus is safe from this vulnerability. See referenced GHSA-23pc-4339-95vg.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability affects the Channelmgnt plug-in for Sopel, a Python IRC bot, allowing malicious users to bypass access controls and take over a channel. This flaw is confirmed to be actively exploited in the wild, indicating a critical need for immediate attention.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, and it is listed in CISA's KEV catalog. This indicates a high likelihood of compromise if the affected software is not updated.
Upgrade the Channelmgnt plug-in to version 1.0.3 or higher. If using MirahezeBot-Plugins, ensure version 9.0.2 or later is installed.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-15251 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2020-15251 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-15251 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1