Next.js, a popular React framework developed by Vercel, has a significant vulnerability affecting versions 10.0.0 to 12.0.10. This vulnerability allows for User Interface (UI) Misrepresentation of Critical Information, which can lead to serious implications if exploited. Specifically, if the `next.config.js` file contains an `images.domains` array and permits user-provided SVGs, the application is vulnerable. The issue has been patched in version 12.1.0. Given the potential for exploitation, organizations using affected versions must prioritize remediation.
The severity of this vulnerability is classified as medium, with a CVSS score of 5.9, indicating a moderate risk level. The vulnerability primarily arises from the attack vector being network-based, necessitating a lower level of complexity for exploitation. In this case, no user interaction or privileges are required, which heightens the risk to organizations relying on affected versions of Next.js.
With the potential for high integrity impact and no confidentiality or availability impact, the implications are concerning. Organizations should address this vulnerability in their patch management processes, as the exploitability score is moderate and can pose a risk if left unremediated.
The urgency for organizations to patch is clear; they must take action to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. With the data indicating that there is no known exploit at this time, the focus should remain on updating to version 12.1.0 or later to secure their applications against this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-2022-23646 describes a vulnerability in Next.js, specifically due to the misrepresentation of critical information in the user interface. The affected versions include all releases starting from 10.0.0 to just before 12.1.0. The official CVSS score from NVD rates this vulnerability at 7.5, categorized as high severity, but it is acknowledged as medium in the broader context.
The root cause of this vulnerability is found in the configuration settings of Next.js applications, specifically in the `next.config.js` file. If the `images.domains` array is utilized and allows SVGs from user inputs, the risk becomes evident. The patch provided in version 12.1.0 addresses this issue, and until organizations can upgrade, they should consider altering their loader configuration as a workaround.
Publication of this vulnerability occurred on February 17, 2022, with a modification noted in November 2024. The CWE classification for this vulnerability is CWE-451, indicating an issue with the user interface.
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability arises from the improper handling of user-provided SVGs within the Next.js framework, allowing for potential misrepresentation of critical information. The attack can be executed over a network, and it requires no special privileges or user interaction, making it accessible to a wide range of potential attackers.
The attack complexity is high, as it necessitates specific conditions in the application configuration to be met. This includes having the `images.domains` array configured to accept user-provided SVGs. Security teams should ensure that their configurations adhere to best practices to mitigate this vulnerability.
In terms of impact, the vulnerability primarily affects data integrity, with a potential for high integrity impact while not affecting confidentiality or availability. Organizations need to monitor their Next.js implementations for potential configuration issues that could expose them to this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing Next.js versions between 10.0.0 and 12.0.10 face real-world risks associated with this vulnerability. The potential for attackers to leverage this vulnerability to manipulate user interfaces poses significant risks, especially for applications handling sensitive information.
The overall blast radius of this vulnerability can be extensive, particularly in applications where user-generated content is common. Security teams must assess their applications' configurations and ensure that they are not inadvertently exposing critical information through misconfigurations.
Given the CVSS score of 5.9 and the exploitability metrics indicating medium risk, organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability in their patch cycle. Immediate action should be taken to upgrade to version 12.1.0 or later, as failure to do so may expose them to unnecessary risks.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects Next.js versions starting from 10.0.0 and prior to 12.1.0. Organizations using these versions should take immediate action to upgrade to version 12.1.0 or later to mitigate the risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply the patch available in version 12.1.0 of Next.js as soon as possible. If immediate upgrading is not feasible, a potential workaround is to modify the `next.config.js` file to use a different loader configuration that does not default to allowing user-provided SVGs.
Furthermore, regular security assessments, including thorough configuration reviews and security testing, should be conducted to identify and address vulnerabilities that may arise from misconfigurations.
For organizations looking to enhance their security posture, consider engaging in penetration testing to validate the effectiveness of their security controls.
Detection Guidance
Security teams should monitor logs for anomalies related to image handling and user-uploaded content. Detection mechanisms should be in place to flag unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.
Additionally, organizations should maintain a robust logging framework to track changes in the `next.config.js` file and monitor for any unauthorized modifications that could lead to misconfigurations.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The vulnerability present in Next.js underscores the critical need for developers to adhere to secure coding practices, particularly when dealing with user-uploaded content. The pattern of vulnerabilities related to improper handling of user inputs continues to emerge, reminding organizations of the importance of safeguarding against such risks.
Security teams should prioritize regular security training for developers, focusing on secure coding practices and the implications of configuration errors. By fostering a culture of security awareness, organizations can reduce the likelihood of similar vulnerabilities arising in the future.
For further reading on vulnerability management and secure coding practices, explore our insights on vulnerability management programs and penetration testing methodologies to enhance your security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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