CVE-2016-10558 in Aerospike Module
Summary
by MITRE
aerospike is an Aerospike add-on module for Node.js. aerospike versions below 2.4.2 download binary resources over HTTP, which leaves the module vulnerable to MITM attacks. It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested binary with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2020
The aerospike node.js module represents a critical security vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10558 that affects versions prior to 2.4.2. This vulnerability stems from the module's reliance on unencrypted HTTP connections when downloading binary resources during installation and runtime operations. The flaw creates a significant attack surface where malicious actors can intercept network traffic and substitute legitimate binary components with compromised versions. The vulnerability operates under the principle of man-in-the-middle attacks where an attacker positioned within the network path between the client and remote server can manipulate the download process. This represents a fundamental failure in secure software delivery practices and violates industry standards for secure communication protocols. The specific weakness aligns with CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols. When an attacker successfully executes this attack, they can achieve remote code execution capabilities by replacing the legitimate binary with a malicious one that executes arbitrary commands on the target system. The attack vector specifically targets the installation phase where the module fetches necessary binary components, making it particularly dangerous as it can compromise systems before they even begin normal operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to encompass full system compromise through remote code execution. An attacker who successfully manipulates the binary download process can inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the affected Node.js process, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects the entire aerospike ecosystem and creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple installations. Organizations using vulnerable versions of the module face significant risk as the attack requires minimal network proximity or interception capabilities to succeed. The threat model aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and script injection, and T1566 which addresses credential access through phishing or network interception. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security practices in dependency management and binary distribution, where the module fails to implement proper certificate validation or secure transport mechanisms. This creates an environment where trust is established through insecure channels, violating fundamental security principles of secure software supply chain management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10558 require immediate version updates to aerospike 2.4.2 or later, which addresses the insecure HTTP download mechanism by implementing secure HTTPS connections for all binary resources. Organizations should also implement network-level security controls including firewall rules that restrict outbound HTTP traffic and enforce the use of HTTPS for all external communications. Network monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate binary substitution attempts. The security community should consider implementing certificate pinning mechanisms where possible to further strengthen the trust model for binary downloads. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems using vulnerable versions of the module and ensure proper patching procedures are followed. Security teams should also review their software supply chain processes to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other dependencies. The incident highlights the importance of secure software distribution practices and proper implementation of secure communication protocols, emphasizing that all binary downloads should occur over encrypted channels to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. Organizations must also establish robust incident response procedures for handling such vulnerabilities and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence to identify similar patterns across their infrastructure.