CVE-2016-10633 in dwebp-bin
Summary
by MITRE
dwebp-bin is a dwebp node.js wrapper that convert WebP into PNG. dwebp-bin 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-2016-10633 affects dwebp-bin, a node.js wrapper designed to convert WebP image format files into PNG format. This tool operates by downloading binary resources from remote servers to perform its core functionality, creating a critical security gap in its implementation. The primary flaw lies in the tool's use of unencrypted HTTP protocols for binary downloads, which exposes the entire system to man-in-the-middle attack vectors. This weakness represents a fundamental failure in secure software development practices, particularly concerning the handling of external dependencies and network communications.
The technical implementation of dwebp-bin demonstrates poor security hygiene by not implementing proper cryptographic verification mechanisms for downloaded binaries. When the tool requests binary resources over HTTP, it creates an attack surface where malicious actors positioned on the network can intercept and modify the download process. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage. The absence of checksum validation, digital signatures, or HTTPS enforcement creates an environment where an attacker can substitute legitimate binaries with malicious payloads, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the victim's system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that could compromise entire systems. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could replace the legitimate WebP conversion binaries with malicious executables, potentially gaining full control over the compromised system. This represents a severe risk for developers and organizations using dwebp-bin in their applications, particularly in environments where network traffic is not properly secured or monitored. The vulnerability affects the software supply chain by introducing a potential entry point for attackers to compromise systems through legitimate software dependencies, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where such tools are widely deployed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10633 require immediate implementation of secure download mechanisms that enforce HTTPS connections and implement cryptographic verification of downloaded binaries. Organizations should update to versions of dwebp-bin that utilize secure protocols and include checksum validation or digital signature verification. The solution should also include network-level protections such as DNS security extensions and proper firewall configurations to prevent unauthorized access to the network. System administrators must conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of all node.js dependencies and implement continuous monitoring for similar security flaws. This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure software supply chain management and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details can create significant security risks, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1133 for external remote services and emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls throughout the software development lifecycle.