CVE-2018-21270: Out-of-bounds Read in stringstream
Summary
CVE-2018-21270: Out-of-bounds Read in stringstream. Affects stringstream versions < 0.0.6. Fixed in 0.0.6. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- node-stringstream · Debian:11
The same CVE-2018-21270 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
The stringstream package is an npm module that provides a stream interface for reading and writing strings. It is commonly used in Node.js applications to manipulate string data. However, all versions of stringstream prior to version 0.0.6 are vulnerable to an out-of-bounds read issue. This vulnerability occurs when uninitialized buffers are allocated when a number is passed into the input stream. This vulnerability affects Node.js 4.x and below.
Vulnerability Detail
The out-of-bounds read vulnerability in stringstream can lead to information disclosure or a crash of the application. When a number is passed into the input stream, uninitialized buffers are allocated, which can result in reading data beyond the intended boundaries. An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive information or cause the application to behave unexpectedly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.0.6
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install stringstream@0.0.6Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As there is no fix available, a possible workaround is to validate and sanitize user input before passing it to stringstream. By ensuring that only valid input is processed, the risk of triggering the vulnerability can be reduced. Here is an example of how input validation can be implemented in a Node.js application:
const input = getUserInput();
if (typeof input === 'string') {
// Process the input using stringstream
} else {
// Handle invalid input
}
Conclusion
The stringstream package is vulnerable to an out-of-bounds read issue when a number is passed into the input stream. This vulnerability can lead to information disclosure or application crashes. Unfortunately, there is no fix available at the moment. It is recommended to avoid using stringstream if user input is involved. Consider implementing input validation and exploring alternative packages to mitigate the risk. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for stringstream →
FAQ
The vulnerability can potentially lead to information disclosure or application crashes. An attacker could exploit this issue to access sensitive data or cause the application to behave unexpectedly.
Node.js 4.x and below are affected by this vulnerability.
No, there is currently no fix available for this vulnerability in the stringstream package.
Yes, there are alternative packages available for string manipulation in Node.js. It is recommended to explore other options and choose a package that is actively maintained and does not have known vulnerabilities.
If you are currently using stringstream and passing user input into it, it is recommended to stop using the package or implement input validation and sanitization to mitigate the risk of this vulnerability.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for stringstream.
