CVE-2016-10588 in nw
Summary
by MITRE
nw is an installer for nw.js. nw downloads zipped resources over HTTP, It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested zip file with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10588 resides within the nw.js installer utility, which represents a critical security flaw in the software distribution and execution process. This installer is designed to facilitate the installation of nw.js applications by downloading compressed resources over unencrypted HTTP connections. The fundamental issue lies in the lack of cryptographic verification mechanisms during the download process, creating an avenue for man-in-the-middle attacks that could compromise system integrity. The vulnerability specifically affects users who rely on this installer for nw.js application deployment, making it a significant concern for developers and system administrators who depend on this toolchain for their software distribution processes.
The technical flaw manifests through the absence of secure download validation mechanisms within the nw.js installer framework. When the installer attempts to download zipped resources, it performs these operations over HTTP rather than HTTPS, leaving the communication channel susceptible to interception and modification. An attacker positioned within the network traffic path or who has access to the network infrastructure can intercept the HTTP request and replace the legitimate zip file with a maliciously crafted binary payload. This type of attack aligns with CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network communications. The vulnerability essentially allows for arbitrary code execution within the context of the user's system, as the installer will execute the downloaded resources without proper verification of their authenticity or integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling full system compromise when attackers leverage the installer to deliver malicious payloads. The attack vector requires only network position or interception capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network security is not properly enforced. The vulnerability affects any user who relies on the nw.js installer for application deployment, creating a broad attack surface that could impact developers, system administrators, and end users who are unaware of the security implications. This type of vulnerability can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1195 which describes the use of unencrypted protocols for command and control communications, though in this case the attack occurs during the legitimate software installation process rather than during runtime.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10588 should focus on implementing secure communication protocols and verification mechanisms within the installer framework. The most effective approach involves transitioning from HTTP to HTTPS for all resource downloads, ensuring that cryptographic certificates are properly validated and that integrity checks are performed on downloaded files. Organizations should also consider implementing network security controls such as deep packet inspection and firewall rules that prevent unencrypted traffic from reaching internal systems. Additionally, the installer should be modified to include cryptographic signature verification for all downloaded resources, ensuring that only authenticated and verified packages are executed. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure software distribution practices and the need for comprehensive security controls throughout the entire software lifecycle, particularly during installation and update processes where attackers can exploit trust relationships to deliver malicious payloads.