CVE-2016-10677 in google-closure-tools-latest
Summary
by MITRE
google-closure-tools-latest is a Node.js module wrapper for downloading the latest version of the Google Closure tools google-closure-tools-latest 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 resources with an attacker controlled copy 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 • 02/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10677 affects the google-closure-tools-latest Node.js module which serves as a wrapper for downloading the latest version of Google Closure tools. This module presents a significant security risk due to its implementation of insecure communication protocols during the resource acquisition process. The flaw manifests when the module downloads binary resources over unencrypted HTTP connections rather than secure HTTPS channels, creating an exploitable attack surface that can be leveraged by malicious actors positioned within the network infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the module's failure to implement proper transport layer security during binary resource downloads. When the google-closure-tools-latest module requests binary components from remote servers, it utilizes HTTP protocol which transmits data in plaintext without encryption or integrity verification mechanisms. This design flaw directly violates security best practices and creates opportunities for man-in-the-middle attacks where adversaries can intercept and manipulate the communication between the client and the remote server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-319 as it involves the exposure of sensitive information through insecure transmission of data over networks, specifically the lack of encryption during resource transfer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to potentially enable full remote code execution capabilities. An attacker positioned between the victim and the remote server can exploit this weakness by substituting the legitimate binary resources with malicious copies that contain backdoors or other malicious payloads. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1105 for remote file execution, as the compromised binary resources could execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. The risk is particularly severe because the Google Closure tools are commonly used in development environments where the installed modules often have elevated privileges and access to sensitive project files and build processes.
The security implications of this vulnerability are compounded by the fact that it affects a widely used Node.js module that many developers integrate into their build pipelines and development workflows. When developers install this module, they unknowingly introduce a potential attack vector that can be exploited to compromise entire development environments or production systems that rely on the compromised toolchain. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk since the insecure HTTP connections are established during the initial module installation and subsequent updates, making it difficult to remediate without manual intervention or module updates that address the underlying security flaw.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the insecure communication patterns within the google-closure-tools-latest module. Organizations should implement network-level protections such as DNS filtering and traffic monitoring to detect and block insecure HTTP connections to known vulnerable endpoints. The most effective long-term solution involves updating to newer versions of the module that implement secure HTTPS connections for all binary resource downloads, or replacing the vulnerable module with alternative tools that properly enforce transport layer security. Additionally, developers should consider implementing dependency verification mechanisms and supply chain security measures to prevent the execution of compromised code in their development environments. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure communication practices in software supply chain management and highlights the need for comprehensive security controls throughout the entire software development lifecycle.