CVE-2021-23413 is a medium severity vulnerability affecting the jszip package prior to version 3.7.0. This vulnerability allows crafting a new zip file with filenames set to Object prototype values, such as __proto__ or toString. As a result, a returned object can have a modified prototype instance. The CVSS score of 5.3 indicates a moderate level of risk, as the attack vector is network-based, requiring low complexity and no privileges or user interaction.
Organizations utilizing the jszip package should be aware of this vulnerability's potential impact on their applications. Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to unexpected behaviors within the application, particularly if prototype alterations were exploited. Given the nature of the vulnerability and its implications, it is crucial for organizations to apply the latest patches as soon as possible.
The vulnerability was published on July 25, 2021, and falls under the CWE classification for improper handling of user-controlled input. No known public exploits currently exist for this vulnerability, but organizations should remain vigilant.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The affected version is all versions prior to 3.7.0. Regular updates and patches are essential to maintaining a secure environment and preventing potential exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability affects the package jszip before 3.7.0. Crafting a new zip file with filenames set to Object prototype values (e.g., __proto__, toString, etc.) results in a returned object with a modified prototype instance. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.3, categorized as medium severity.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-23413 lies in how the jszip package handles filenames for zip files. By allowing filenames to be set to Object prototype values, attackers may manipulate the prototype of returned objects, leading to unintended consequences in the application.
The attack vector is network-based, meaning the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring physical access to the system. The complexity of the attack is low, and no privileges or user interaction are required, making it accessible to a wide range of potential attackers.
The attack impacts availability, with a low impact score indicating potential disruptions in service if exploited. However, there are no impacts on confidentiality or integrity, as the vulnerability does not allow unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes potential disruptions in application functionality due to unexpected prototype modifications. As this vulnerability is present in a widely used package, the blast radius could be significant, affecting many applications reliant on jszip.
Given the CVSS score of 5.3, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. The lack of known exploits does not lessen the urgency; proactive measures should be taken to mitigate any risk.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to 3.7.0 of the jszip package are affected by this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2021-23413, organizations should upgrade to jszip version 3.7.0 or later. If upgrading is not possible, consider implementing workarounds such as input validation to prevent the use of Object prototype values as filenames.
Organizations can also benefit from conducting continuous security testing to identify other potential vulnerabilities in their applications. For more information on security testing, refer to the penetration testing services provided by AppSecure.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor application logs for any unusual behavior or errors that may indicate an attempt to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, behavioral anomalies related to object prototype modifications could serve as indicators of compromise.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2021-23413 lies in its demonstration of how common libraries, such as jszip, can introduce vulnerabilities that affect a wide range of applications. This vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough security reviews in software development.
As organizations increasingly rely on third-party libraries, it is crucial for security teams to conduct regular audits of these components. For guidance on vulnerability management, consider reviewing the vulnerability management program design principles.
Additionally, organizations should adopt a proactive stance towards security by implementing comprehensive security testing methodologies. Insights from the penetration testing methodology can provide strategic advantages in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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