CVE-2016-10596 in imageoptim
Summary
by MITRE
imageoptim is a Node.js wrapper for some images compression algorithms. imageoptim downloads zipped 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 tarball with an attacker controlled tarball if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2020
The CVE-2016-10596 vulnerability resides within imageoptim, a Node.js package designed to streamline image compression through various algorithms. This tool operates by downloading zipped resources over HTTP connections, creating a significant security exposure that directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the software supply chain. The fundamental flaw lies in the lack of secure transport mechanisms and verification processes during resource retrieval, leaving users susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks that can compromise the entire system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from imageoptim's reliance on unencrypted HTTP protocols for downloading compressed resources. When the package attempts to fetch tarball files from remote servers, it does so without implementing proper cryptographic verification or integrity checks. This design choice creates a dangerous attack surface where malicious actors positioned on the network can intercept and manipulate the download process. The vulnerability specifically enables a form of supply chain compromise where an attacker can substitute the legitimate tarball with a maliciously crafted one, potentially leading to remote code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability represents a critical risk to developers and organizations using imageoptim in their build processes or automated workflows. The potential for remote code execution means that attackers could gain complete control over systems where the vulnerable package is installed, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or further lateral movement within networks. The impact extends beyond individual installations to affect entire development pipelines and deployment environments that rely on this package for image optimization tasks.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols. It also maps to ATT&CK technique T1195.001, concerning the use of unencrypted network protocols for data exfiltration and command execution. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to secure HTTP versions, implementing certificate pinning mechanisms, or switching to verified package sources. The recommended approach involves configuring imageoptim to use HTTPS connections exclusively, implementing cryptographic verification of downloaded packages, and establishing network monitoring to detect potential man-in-the-middle activities.
Security practitioners should also consider implementing network segmentation strategies and employing tools that monitor for suspicious download patterns or unauthorized certificate modifications. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure software supply chain practices and demonstrates how seemingly benign package management operations can create significant attack vectors. Organizations should conduct comprehensive audits of their dependency management systems to identify similar vulnerabilities across their software ecosystem and establish policies that mandate secure transport protocols for all external resource downloads.