CVE-2013-7377 in codem-transcode Module
Summary
by MITRE
The codem-transcode module before 0.5.0 for Node.js, when ffprobe is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a POST request to /probe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-7377 represents a critical command injection flaw within the codem-transcode Node.js module, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.5.0. This security weakness resides in the module's handling of media transcoding operations and occurs when the ffprobe functionality is enabled. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the module's probe endpoint, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server. The module's design fails to adequately separate user input from command execution contexts, allowing attackers to manipulate the underlying ffprobe utility through crafted POST requests to the /probe endpoint. This flaw fundamentally violates secure coding principles and demonstrates a classic command injection vulnerability pattern that has been extensively documented in security frameworks such as CWE-77 and CWE-94, where insufficient input sanitization leads to unauthorized command execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as remote attackers can leverage this flaw to gain full control over the affected Node.js server running the vulnerable codem-transcode module. Once exploited, the attacker can execute commands with the privileges of the Node.js process, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where Node.js applications handle media processing tasks, as these systems often run with elevated privileges to access system resources and perform transcoding operations. The attack vector is straightforward and requires only a simple HTTP POST request to the designated probe endpoint, making this vulnerability highly exploitable and attractive to automated attack tools. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries leverage legitimate system tools to execute malicious commands.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-7377 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations. The primary and most effective mitigation involves upgrading to codem-transcode version 0.5.0 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should also implement network-level restrictions to limit access to the /probe endpoint, particularly when ffprobe functionality is enabled. Additional defensive measures include disabling ffprobe functionality if it is not strictly required, implementing proper input sanitization at multiple layers, and employing principle of least privilege for Node.js processes. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual command execution patterns and unauthorized access attempts to media processing endpoints. The vulnerability highlights the importance of validating and sanitizing all external inputs, especially when these inputs are used in system calls or shell commands, and demonstrates why secure coding practices and regular security assessments are essential for maintaining application security in modern development environments.