Node.js Vulnerability in Ubuntu Packages: CVE-2024-37372 - Path Handling Flaw
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2024-37372: The Permission Model assumes that any path starting with two backslashes \ has a four-character prefix that can be ignored, which is not always true. Affects nodejs versions 0.10.15~dfsg1-4 – 0.10.25~dfsg2-2ubuntu1.2+esm2. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
Node.js is a popular open-source JavaScript runtime built on Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine. It enables developers to build scalable network applications. The affected versions in Ubuntu include nodejs from various LTS releases, which are widely used in server-side applications. This vulnerability affects the permission model of Node.js, potentially leading to security issues in applications relying on path handling.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the Permission Model of Node.js, which incorrectly assumes that any path starting with two backslashes () has a four-character prefix that can be ignored. This assumption is not always valid, leading to edge cases where unauthorized access may occur. The ramifications include potential exposure of sensitive data or unauthorized actions being performed by attackers, making it critical to address this issue promptly.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid using paths that start with two backslashes in your applications until the package is updated. Review your codebase for any instances of such paths and modify them accordingly.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-37372 is a significant vulnerability affecting multiple versions of Node.js in Ubuntu. It is crucial for developers to update their packages and review their code to mitigate potential risks associated with this flaw. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-37372 is a vulnerability in Node.js that affects the permission model related to path handling, potentially allowing unauthorized access.
Affected versions include nodejs from Ubuntu LTS releases 14.04, 16.04, 18.04, 20.04, 22.04, 24.04, and 25.04.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
If an immediate update is not possible, implement the suggested workaround by avoiding paths that start with two backslashes in your code.
The CVSS score for CVE-2024-37372 is 3.6, indicating a medium severity level.
References
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