CVE-2020-7617: Prototype Pollution in ini-parser

ini-parser Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

10/06/2020
No i
Critical
9.8

CVE-2020-7617: Prototype Pollution in ini-parser. Affects ini-parser versions < 0.0.2. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The ini-parser package is an npm package used for parsing INI files. It provides a parse function that allows users to parse INI files and convert them into JavaScript objects. This package is widely used in various applications that require INI file parsing functionality.

Vulnerability Detail

The ini-parser package is vulnerable to prototype pollution. The parse function does not properly restrict the modification of an object's prototype, allowing an attacker to add or modify properties that will exist on all objects. This can lead to various security issues, such as arbitrary code execution, data tampering, and privilege escalation. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its critical severity.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

As there is no fix available, a possible workaround is to implement input validation and sanitization when using the ini-parser package. This can help mitigate the risk of prototype pollution attacks. Here is an example of how to sanitize the input before parsing:

const ini = require('ini-parser');

function parseIniFile(data) {
  // Validate and sanitize the input data
  if (typeof data !== 'string') {
    throw new Error('Invalid input data');
  }

  // Parse the sanitized data
  const sanitizedData = sanitizeInput(data);
  const parsedData = ini.parse(sanitizedData);

  return parsedData;
}

function sanitizeInput(data) {
  // Implement your input sanitization logic here
  // Remove any potentially harmful characters or properties
  // Return the sanitized data
}

Conclusion

The ini-parser package is vulnerable to prototype pollution, which can have severe security implications for applications that rely on its functionality. Currently, there is no fix available, and it is recommended to consider using an alternative package. Implementing input validation and sanitization can help mitigate the risk of prototype pollution attacks. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Prototype pollution is a vulnerability that occurs when an attacker can modify the prototype of an object, allowing them to add or modify properties that will exist on all instances of that object. This can lead to various security issues, such as arbitrary code execution and data tampering.

The prototype pollution vulnerability in ini-parser allows an attacker to manipulate the parsed JavaScript objects, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution, data tampering, and privilege escalation. This can have severe consequences for applications that rely on the integrity and security of the parsed INI data.

Currently, there is no fix available for this vulnerability in the ini-parser package. It is recommended to consider using an alternative package that is not affected by prototype pollution vulnerabilities. Keep an eye on the official repository or package manager for any updates or patches that may address this issue.

As of now, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability in ini-parser. However, it is important to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent any potential security incidents.

You can use the Vulert Playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities, using just the package-lock.json file. It provides a comprehensive analysis of vulnerabilities and their impact on your application.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →

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