Critical Memory Corruption Vulnerability in Node.js - CVE-2020-8174
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2020-8174: napi_get_value_string_*() allows various kinds of memory corruption in node < 10.21.0, 12.18.0, and < 14.4.0. Affects nodejs versions < 8.10.0~dfsg-2ubuntu0.4+esm2. Fixed in 8.10.0~dfsg-2ubuntu0.4+esm2. 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 are vulnerable to a memory corruption issue that can lead to severe security risks, including data breaches and application crashes.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-8174 is rooted in the function napi_get_value_string_*(), which is susceptible to various forms of memory corruption in Node.js versions prior to 10.21.0, 12.18.0, and 14.4.0. This flaw can be exploited by attackers to manipulate memory, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data, application instability, or even remote code execution. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 8.1, indicating a high level of risk.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
8.10.0~dfsg-2ubuntu0.4+esm2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade nodejsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate patching is not feasible, consider restricting access to the affected Node.js applications or services until the update can be applied. Additionally, monitor application logs for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
CVE-2020-8174 represents a significant security risk for applications using vulnerable versions of Node.js. It is crucial for developers and system administrators to update their Node.js installations to the latest patched versions to mitigate this risk and ensure the security of their applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2020-8174 is a memory corruption vulnerability in Node.js that affects versions prior to 10.21.0, 12.18.0, and 14.4.0.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to memory corruption, unauthorized access to sensitive data, application crashes, or remote code execution.
Use the command 'sudo apt install nodejs=<patched_version>' to update to the secure version, replacing <patched_version> with the appropriate version number.
Vulert is a tool that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json, without requiring code access or installation.
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