Critical Certificate Validation Flaw in Node.js - ALPINE-CVE-2019-15604
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2019-15604: Improper Certificate Validation in Node.js 10, 12, and 13 causes the process to abort when sending a crafted X.509 certificate. Affects nodejs versions < 10.19.0-r0. Fixed in 10.19.0-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Node.js is a popular open-source runtime environment that allows developers to execute JavaScript code server-side. It is widely used for building scalable network applications. The affected versions of Node.js (10, 12, and 13) have a vulnerability that compromises the integrity of certificate validation, potentially leading to application crashes when handling malformed X.509 certificates.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as ALPINE-CVE-2019-15604, stems from improper certificate validation in Node.js. When a crafted X.509 certificate is sent, the process may abort unexpectedly, leading to denial of service. This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to disrupt services that rely on Node.js for secure communications, making it critical to address.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
10.19.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade nodejsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, ensure that your application does not process untrusted or malformed X.509 certificates until the package can be updated. Implementing strict validation checks on incoming certificates may help mitigate the risk.
Conclusion
The improper certificate validation vulnerability in Node.js poses a significant risk to applications using affected versions. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to ensure the integrity and availability of services. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
Node.js versions 10, 12, and 13 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to application crashes and denial of service, affecting the availability of services relying on Node.js.
Yes, updating Node.js to the specified patched versions will permanently fix the vulnerability.
References
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