CVE-2016-10575 in Kindlegen
Summary
by MITRE
Kindlegen is a simple Node.js wrapper of the official kindlegen program. Kindlegen versions before 1.1.0 download binary resources over HTTP, which leaves it 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.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10575 affects Kindlegen, a Node.js wrapper that interfaces with Amazon's official kindlegen program used for converting documents to Kindle format. This tool serves as a bridge between user applications and the proprietary Amazon kindlegen utility, which is essential for digital publishing workflows in the e-reader ecosystem. The security flaw manifests in the software's handling of binary resource downloads, specifically through unencrypted HTTP connections that expose the system to man-in-the-middle attacks. This vulnerability represents a critical weakness in the software supply chain, as it allows attackers to intercept and manipulate the download process of essential binary components. The issue stems from the software's inability to verify the integrity and authenticity of downloaded resources, creating an attack surface that could be exploited by adversaries positioned within the network infrastructure or those capable of conducting network-level interception attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability is rooted in the insecure use of HTTP protocols for binary distribution, which violates fundamental security principles for software distribution and dependency management. When Kindlegen versions prior to 1.1.0 attempt to download required binary resources, the communication occurs over unencrypted HTTP connections that lack authentication and integrity verification mechanisms. This design flaw creates a pathway for attackers to perform malicious substitutions of legitimate binaries with compromised versions, potentially leading to remote code execution within the context of the executing application. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and represents a classic case of insecure communication that enables credential exposure and code injection attacks. The attack vector requires the adversary to be positioned either on the same network segment or between the victim and the target server, making it particularly dangerous in shared network environments such as public Wi-Fi hotspots or corporate networks where such positioning is feasible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise through remote code execution capabilities. When an attacker successfully substitutes a legitimate binary with a malicious one, the compromised software could execute arbitrary commands on the victim's system with the privileges of the user running the application. This represents a significant threat to both individual users and enterprise environments where such tools might be used for content creation and distribution. The vulnerability affects the entire software supply chain, as it undermines trust in the integrity of downloaded components and creates potential for persistent backdoors or additional attack vectors. Organizations relying on Kindlegen for document conversion workflows face substantial risk, as any compromised binary could provide attackers with a foothold for further network exploration or lateral movement. The impact is particularly concerning given that many users may not be aware of the insecure download mechanisms, making them unwitting participants in supply chain attacks that could affect their entire network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar issues in the future. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to Kindlegen version 1.1.0 or later, which implements secure HTTPS connections for binary downloads and incorporates proper certificate validation mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network-level security controls such as DNS filtering, network segmentation, and traffic inspection to detect and prevent unauthorized binary substitutions. The implementation of certificate pinning techniques can provide additional protection against certificate-based attacks, while network monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous download patterns or unexpected binary modifications. Security teams should consider implementing software composition analysis tools to monitor for vulnerable dependencies and ensure that all binary downloads occur over secure channels. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability highlights the importance of adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the NIST SP 800-53 framework for secure software development practices, particularly those addressing secure coding and supply chain integrity. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1195 technique for "Supply Chain Compromise," emphasizing the need for organizations to implement robust software integrity verification processes and maintain detailed audit trails of all binary downloads and installations.