CVE-2016-10622 in nodeschnaps
Summary
by MITRE
nodeschnaps is a NodeJS compatibility layer for Java (Rhino). nodeschnaps 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-2016-10622 affects nodeschnaps, a NodeJS compatibility layer designed to enable Java applications to run within NodeJS environments through the Rhino JavaScript engine. This tool serves as a bridge between NodeJS and Java ecosystems, facilitating interoperability for developers working with both technologies. The primary security concern stems from the software's implementation of insecure download mechanisms that utilize unencrypted HTTP protocols for retrieving binary resources from remote servers. This design flaw creates a significant attack surface that can be exploited by malicious actors positioned within the network infrastructure.
The technical flaw resides in the insecure transmission of binary components through HTTP connections rather than secure HTTPS protocols. When nodeschnaps attempts to download required binary resources, it establishes HTTP connections that are susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through insecure communication channels. The absence of cryptographic protection means that network traffic can be intercepted, modified, or replaced by attackers without detection. The flaw operates at the network communication level where the tool fails to implement proper certificate validation or secure transport mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to potentially enable full remote code execution capabilities. An attacker who successfully performs a man-in-the-middle attack can replace legitimate binary files with maliciously crafted alternatives that execute arbitrary code on the target system. This scenario represents a critical security risk as it allows attackers to gain complete control over systems running vulnerable versions of nodeschnaps. The potential for remote code execution through this vector means that attackers could install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or compromise entire network infrastructures. The vulnerability affects any system that relies on nodeschnaps for Java-NodeJS interoperability and is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where such tools might be used across multiple systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10622 require immediate implementation of secure communication protocols throughout the nodeschnaps ecosystem. The primary solution involves upgrading to versions that enforce HTTPS connections for all binary downloads, thereby eliminating the man-in-the-middle attack vector. Organizations should implement certificate pinning mechanisms where possible to further strengthen the security of binary downloads. Network-level protections including intrusion detection systems and deep packet inspection capabilities can help identify and block suspicious traffic patterns associated with MITM attacks. The remediation process should also include network segmentation to limit exposure and ensure that only trusted network segments can access the vulnerable software components. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect and alert on insecure HTTP connections within their infrastructure, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential access through man-in-the-middle attacks. Organizations should also establish secure software supply chain practices including checksum validation of downloaded binaries and regular security audits of all third-party dependencies.