In Async versions prior to 2.6.4 and 3.x before 3.2.2, a malicious user can obtain privileges via the mapValues() method, which is related to prototype pollution in the lib/internal/iterator.js file. This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.8, categorizing it as high severity. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data and manipulation of application behavior.
As the vulnerability can be exploited locally, it requires some level of user interaction. However, the attack complexity is low, which means that even users with limited technical skills could potentially leverage this vulnerability if they gain access to a system running the affected versions of Async. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
This vulnerability is particularly concerning given its high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. If left unaddressed, it could lead to severe operational disruptions or data breaches. Organizations using affected versions must schedule remediation as soon as possible to mitigate associated risks.
Currently, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability, which means that while the risk is significant, active exploitation in the wild has not yet been reported. Nonetheless, organizations should not become complacent and should remain vigilant.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-43138 allows for privilege escalation through the misuse of the mapValues() method in Async. The vulnerability affects Async versions prior to 2.6.4 and 3.x before 3.2.2. It was first published on April 6, 2022, and has been classified under CWE-1321, which pertains to prototype pollution.
The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 indicates a high severity level, suggesting that the vulnerability poses a substantial threat to organizations using vulnerable versions of Async. The low attack complexity and the requirement for user interaction mean that while exploitation may not be trivial, it remains a significant concern.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-43138 stems from improper handling of input in the mapValues() method, which can be manipulated by attackers to achieve prototype pollution. This flaw allows attackers to modify the prototype of objects, leading to unexpected behavior in applications that rely on the affected library.
The attack vector is local, meaning that an attacker must have access to the system running the vulnerable version of Async. The attack complexity is low, as the necessary user interaction is required to initiate the exploitation process. The vulnerabilities can lead to high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2021-43138 is substantial. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive application data, alter application logic, and disrupt services. The impact could extend beyond the compromised application, potentially affecting users and other interconnected systems.
Organizations that fail to address this vulnerability may face increased operational risks, including legal liabilities and reputational damage. Given the CVSS score of 7.8 and the fact that it is not currently listed in the KEV catalog, organizations should prioritize patching in their update cycles.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of Async include all versions prior to 2.6.4 and 3.x before 3.2.2. Organizations should ensure they are using patched versions to mitigate risks.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-43138, organizations should update to Async version 2.6.4 or later, or 3.2.2 or later. If patching is not immediately feasible, organizations may consider implementing workarounds such as restricting access to the affected components until patches can be applied. Additionally, security testing practices such as penetration testing should be utilized to identify similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access attempts and analyze behaviors that deviate from the norm. It's essential to maintain an active monitoring strategy to detect any potential exploitation attempts associated with this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-43138 represents a significant risk for organizations utilizing the Async library. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and conducting regular security assessments. Security teams should leverage insights from this incident to reinforce their defensive strategies.
For further guidance on securing applications, organizations can explore resources on vulnerability management programs and effective penetration testing methodologies that can help identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Moreover, organizations should remain vigilant about emerging vulnerabilities and continuously educate their teams about secure coding practices and incident response strategies.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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