CVE-2017-5954: Code Execution Through IIFE in serialize-to-js
Summary
CVE-2017-5954: Code Execution Through IIFE in serialize-to-js. Affects serialize-to-js versions < 1.0.0. Fixed in 1.0.0. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The serialize-to-js package is an npm package that provides serialization and deserialization functionality. It allows users to convert JavaScript objects into a string representation and vice versa. This package is commonly used in Node.js applications to transfer data between different systems or store it in a persistent format. However, versions of serialize-to-js prior to 1.0.0 are vulnerable to arbitrary code execution through an Immediately Invoked Function Expression (IIFE).
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in serialize-to-js arises from a lack of proper input validation during deserialization. An attacker can craft a malicious payload that includes an IIFE, which will be executed when the payload is deserialized. This allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application. The impact of this vulnerability can be severe, as it can lead to remote code execution, unauthorized access, and data manipulation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.0.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install serialize-to-js@1.0.0Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. However, as a general best practice, it is recommended to avoid deserializing untrusted data or to implement strict input validation and sanitization when deserializing data from external sources.
Conclusion
The serialize-to-js package prior to version 1.0.0 is vulnerable to arbitrary code execution through an IIFE. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update to the latest version of the package and follow best practices for input validation and data deserialization. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for serialize-to-js →
FAQ
This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application, potentially leading to remote code execution, unauthorized access, and data manipulation.
You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. The Vulert Playground analyzes your package-lock.json file and provides real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
Yes, updating to version 1.0.0 or later of the serialize-to-js package fixes this vulnerability. It is recommended to review the package documentation for any additional considerations or guidance.
Implementing strict input validation and sanitization when deserializing data from external sources can help mitigate the risk of this vulnerability. Additionally, avoiding deserialization of untrusted data is a good practice.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely if the application deserializes untrusted data from external sources. An attacker can craft a malicious payload and send it to the application, triggering the execution of arbitrary code.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for serialize-to-js.
