CVE-2016-10608 in robot-js
Summary
by MITRE
robot-js is a module for native system automation for node.js. robot-js downloads 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.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10608 affects the robot-js node.js module, which is designed for native system automation tasks. This module operates by downloading binary resources 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 binary downloads, making it susceptible to network-based attacks where malicious actors can intercept and modify the downloaded binaries.
The technical implementation of robot-js demonstrates a clear violation of secure coding practices as outlined in CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper network communication. When the module downloads binary components over HTTP instead of HTTPS, it creates an attack surface where network traffic can be intercepted and manipulated without proper authentication or integrity verification. This vulnerability specifically relates to the lack of transport layer security and the absence of cryptographic verification mechanisms that would normally protect against such attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it potentially enables remote code execution through binary swapping attacks. An attacker positioned within the network or able to perform packet interception can replace legitimate binary files with malicious payloads, which will then be executed by the victim's system when the robot-js module attempts to use these components. This scenario represents a critical security flaw that can lead to complete system compromise, as the downloaded binaries are typically executed with the privileges of the user running the node.js application.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate security gap and implement proper secure communication practices. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a version of robot-js that implements HTTPS downloads with proper certificate validation, thereby preventing the man-in-the-middle attack vectors. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-level security controls such as DNS over HTTPS, secure network segmentation, and traffic inspection to detect and prevent unauthorized binary modifications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework tactics related to initial access and execution, where adversaries exploit insecure network communications to establish persistent access to target systems.
From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability would likely fail security assessments under standards such as NIST SP 800-53 controls that require secure communication protocols for data transmission. The module's behavior violates fundamental security principles regarding the protection of integrity and confidentiality of downloaded resources, making it essential for security-conscious developers to implement proper cryptographic verification mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing software supply chain security measures to verify the integrity of all third-party modules and their dependencies, particularly those that download external resources during runtime operations.