CVE-2016-10625 in headless-browser-lite
Summary
by MITRE
headless-browser-lite is a minimal npm installer for phantomjs and slimerjs with no external dependencies. headless-browser-lite 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-2016-10625 affects the headless-browser-lite npm package, which serves as a minimal installer for phantomjs and slimerjs without external dependencies. This package operates by downloading binary resources over HTTP connections, creating a significant security weakness that exposes users to man-in-the-middle attacks. The fundamental flaw lies in the use of unencrypted HTTP protocols for binary distribution, which violates established security best practices and creates an attack surface that adversaries can exploit to compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the package's reliance on HTTP rather than HTTPS for downloading binary components. When users install or update headless-browser-lite, the package fetches phantomjs and slimerjs binaries from remote servers using HTTP connections that lack encryption and authentication mechanisms. This design choice creates a critical weakness that aligns with CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols. The absence of secure transport mechanisms means that network traffic can be intercepted, modified, or redirected by malicious actors positioned within the network path.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to potentially enable remote code execution capabilities. An attacker who successfully conducts a man-in-the-middle attack can replace the legitimate binary files with malicious counterparts, effectively allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. This scenario represents a significant threat vector that could lead to complete system compromise, as the downloaded binaries are executed with the privileges of the user installing the package. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk that affects all users who rely on this package for headless browser functionality, particularly in environments where network security is not adequately enforced.
This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure software supply chain practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195 which addresses supply chain compromises through manipulation of software dependencies. Organizations and developers using headless-browser-lite should immediately implement mitigations including transitioning to HTTPS-based downloads, implementing binary integrity verification mechanisms, and considering alternative packages that utilize secure distribution methods. The incident highlights the critical need for proper transport layer security in package managers and dependency resolvers, as outlined in security frameworks that emphasize the protection of software distribution channels against tampering and interception attacks.