Arbitrary Command Injection Vulnerability in Node-Macaddress Package
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2018-13797: The macaddress module before 0.2.9 for Node.js is prone to an arbitrary command injection flaw, due to allowing unsanitized input to an exec (rather than execFile) call. Affects node-macaddress versions < 0.2.9-1. Fixed in 0.2.9-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
Node-Macaddress is a Node.js module that provides utilities for working with MAC addresses. It allows developers to retrieve and manipulate MAC address information in their applications. However, prior to version 0.2.9, the package is vulnerable to an arbitrary command injection flaw, which can be exploited if unsanitized input is passed to certain functions.
Vulnerability Detail
The macaddress module before version 0.2.9 for Node.js is susceptible to an arbitrary command injection vulnerability. This flaw arises from the module's use of an exec call, which executes shell commands without proper input sanitization. As a result, an attacker can inject malicious commands, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control over the affected system. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it can be exploited remotely, making it a critical issue for applications relying on this package.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.2.9-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade node-macaddressTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not feasible, a temporary workaround is to sanitize all inputs that are passed to the macaddress module's functions. This can be done by validating and escaping user inputs before they are processed. For example, you can implement input validation checks to ensure that only expected formats are accepted.
Conclusion
The arbitrary command injection vulnerability in the node-macaddress package poses a significant risk to applications that utilize it. It is crucial to update to the patched version 0.2.9-1 or later to mitigate this risk. Additionally, implementing input validation can serve as a temporary measure to protect against potential exploitation.
See every vulnerability recorded for node-macaddress →
FAQ
The macaddress module is a Node.js package that provides functionalities for retrieving and manipulating MAC addresses.
The vulnerability occurs due to the use of an exec call that executes shell commands without sanitizing user input, allowing attackers to inject malicious commands.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized command execution, potentially compromising the security of the affected system.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities in real-time.
Yes, you can sanitize inputs passed to the macaddress module to prevent command injection until you are able to update the package.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for node-macaddress.
