CVE-2016-10594 in ipip
Summary
by MITRE
ipip is a Node.js module to query geolocation information for an IP or domain, based on database by ipip.net. ipip downloads data resources over HTTP, which leaves it vulnerable to MITM attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10594 affects the ipip Node.js module, which serves as a geolocation lookup tool utilizing databases from ipip.net. This module operates by downloading geolocation data over unencrypted HTTP connections, creating a significant security weakness that exposes users to man-in-the-middle attacks. The fundamental flaw lies in the module's failure to implement secure communication protocols for data retrieval, leaving the entire system susceptible to interception and manipulation of the downloaded geolocation databases. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insecure data transfer that violates established security best practices for network communications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the module's reliance on HTTP rather than HTTPS for downloading database resources. When applications using this module fetch geolocation data, they establish connections that lack encryption and authentication mechanisms, making it possible for attackers positioned within the network to intercept, modify, or redirect the data transfer. This weakness creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious geolocation data or redirect queries to compromised servers, potentially leading to incorrect geolocation information being returned to applications that depend on this module. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and represents a clear violation of the principle of secure communication in networked applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption, as it can compromise the integrity and trustworthiness of geolocation services within applications that utilize the ipip module. Attackers could manipulate geolocation data to misdirect users, bypass geo-restrictions, or create false location-based services that appear legitimate to end users. Applications relying on accurate geolocation information for security purposes, such as access control systems or fraud detection mechanisms, could be rendered ineffective or even compromised through this vulnerability. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where network traffic passes through untrusted networks or where attackers have access to network monitoring capabilities, as the lack of encryption makes the data transfer easily exploitable.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of secure communication protocols within the module's data retrieval mechanisms. The most effective approach involves upgrading the ipip module to use HTTPS instead of HTTP for all data downloads, ensuring that connections are encrypted and authenticated through proper certificate validation. Security professionals should also consider implementing certificate pinning mechanisms to further strengthen the protection against man-in-the-middle attacks. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of all Node.js applications that utilize this module, ensuring that proper network security controls are in place to protect against potential exploitation. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure communication practices and demonstrates how seemingly simple implementation flaws can create significant security risks in networked applications. The remediation process should also include monitoring for any potential exploitation attempts and implementing network-level controls to detect and prevent unauthorized data manipulation. Organizations should follow ATT&CK framework guidance for network security controls and ensure that their security practices align with industry standards for protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks and data integrity violations.