CVE-2016-10636 in grunt-ccompiler
Summary
by MITRE
grunt-ccompiler is a Closure Compiler Grunt Plugin. grunt-ccompiler 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.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10636 affects grunt-ccompiler, a popular Closure Compiler Grunt Plugin used in web development workflows. This plugin facilitates the compilation of javascript code using Google's Closure Compiler, which is essential for optimizing and minifying javascript assets in modern web applications. The flaw stems from the plugin's implementation of insecure download mechanisms that rely on unencrypted HTTP connections for retrieving binary resources required for compilation processes.
The technical nature of this vulnerability resides in the plugin's failure to implement secure transmission protocols for downloading binary components. When grunt-ccompiler attempts to fetch required compiler binaries, it establishes connections using the HTTP protocol without any encryption or integrity verification mechanisms. This design choice creates a significant attack surface that aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols. The vulnerability represents a classic man-in-the-middle attack vector where an adversary positioned between the development environment and the remote server can intercept and manipulate the download process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it creates a pathway for remote code execution within the development environment. An attacker who successfully conducts a man-in-the-middle attack can replace the legitimate binary resources with malicious payloads that will execute with the privileges of the user running the grunt build process. This represents a critical security risk in development environments where developers often have elevated system privileges and may be running build processes with administrative rights. The vulnerability affects the entire software supply chain by compromising the integrity of development tools that are trusted to function correctly.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing secure download mechanisms that utilize encrypted protocols such as HTTPS with certificate validation. The plugin should be updated to enforce secure connections and implement integrity checks using cryptographic hashes or digital signatures for downloaded binaries. Organizations should also consider network-level protections such as DNS security extensions and network segmentation to reduce the attack surface. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.006, which covers the execution of malicious code through compromised development tools, and demonstrates the importance of securing the software supply chain as outlined in NIST SP 800-161. Development teams should also implement proper security controls for dependency management, including verification of package integrity and regular security assessments of development toolchains to prevent similar vulnerabilities from compromising their build environments.