Critical Vulnerability in node-yargs-parser: Object.prototype Manipulation
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2020-7608: yargs-parser could be tricked into adding or modifying properties of Object.prototype using a "proto" payload. Affects node-yargs-parser versions < 18.1.1-1. Fixed in 18.1.1-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
node-yargs-parser is a popular library used in Node.js applications for parsing command-line arguments. It is widely utilized due to its simplicity and effectiveness in handling various input formats. However, it has been found to be vulnerable to a security flaw that allows for the manipulation of Object.prototype, potentially leading to severe security issues in applications that rely on this package.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as DEBIAN-CVE-2020-7608 allows yargs-parser to be tricked into adding or modifying properties of Object.prototype using a specially crafted 'proto' payload. This can lead to unexpected behavior in applications, including the possibility of executing arbitrary code or altering the functionality of the application. The flaw originates from improper handling of user input, which can be exploited by attackers to inject malicious properties into the prototype chain.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
18.1.1-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade node-yargs-parserTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can sanitize inputs to the yargs-parser to prevent the injection of malicious payloads. This can be done by validating and filtering user inputs before they are processed by the parser.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in node-yargs-parser poses a significant risk to applications that utilize this package. It is essential to update to the latest patched version to ensure the security of your application. Additionally, employing input validation can serve as a temporary measure until the update is applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for node-yargs-parser →
FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modifications of Object.prototype, which may allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or alter application behavior.
You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities in real-time.
Yes, a patched version of node-yargs-parser (18.1.1-1) is available. It is crucial to update to this version to mitigate the vulnerability.
If an immediate update is not possible, implement input validation and sanitization as a temporary workaround to mitigate the risk.
Detailed information about this vulnerability can be found in the Debian CVE database at https://storage.googleapis.com/debian-osv/debian-cve-osv/DEBIAN-CVE-2020-7608.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for node-yargs-parser.
