CVE-2016-10612 in dalek-browser-ie-canary
Summary
by MITRE
dalek-browser-ie-canary is Internet Explorer bindings for DalekJS. dalek-browser-ie-canary 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-2016-10612 affects the dalek-browser-ie-canary component which serves as Internet Explorer bindings for the DalekJS testing framework. This particular module represents a critical security flaw in the software supply chain that specifically targets the download mechanism used by the browser automation tool. The vulnerability stems from the application's reliance on unencrypted HTTP protocols for retrieving binary resources, creating an inherent weakness in the communication channel between the client and remote servers.
The technical flaw manifests in the insecure transmission of binary resources over HTTP instead of HTTPS, which creates a man-in-the-middle attack vector that can be exploited by adversaries positioned within the network traffic flow. This design decision violates fundamental security principles for secure communication and exposes the system to potential manipulation of downloaded components. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-319 as it involves the exposure of sensitive information through insecure transmission of credentials or resources over unencrypted channels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it potentially enables remote code execution through binary swapping attacks. An attacker who successfully positions themselves between the user and the remote server can substitute the legitimate binary resources with maliciously crafted alternatives, effectively allowing for arbitrary code execution on the target system. This represents a severe escalation from passive eavesdropping to active compromise, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network security controls may be insufficient.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is particularly concerning given that it affects automated testing frameworks that are commonly deployed in development environments and continuous integration pipelines. These systems often run with elevated privileges and may have access to sensitive development resources, making the potential for exploitation even more damaging. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1566 for credential access through network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing secure communication protocols throughout the software supply chain, specifically mandating HTTPS for all binary downloads and implementing certificate pinning mechanisms where appropriate. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate MITM activities. The recommended approach includes updating to versions that utilize encrypted communication channels and establishing proper network security controls to prevent unauthorized interception of network traffic, thereby addressing both the immediate vulnerability and broader security implications.