CVE-2016-1202 in Electron
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Atom Electron before 0.33.5 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse Node.js module in a parent directory of a directory named on a require line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1202 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Atom Electron versions prior to 0.33.5. This flaw stems from the improper handling of Node.js module resolution within the Electron framework, which is widely used for building cross-platform desktop applications. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application processes a require statement that references a directory path, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate the module loading process through carefully crafted file placement.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a Trojan horse attack vector where a local attacker places a malicious Node.js module in a parent directory of the intended module location. When the Electron application attempts to resolve the module path, the system's module resolution algorithm traverses directories in a predictable order, ultimately loading the malicious module instead of the legitimate one. This behavior aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which describes how applications that search for files or modules using untrusted paths can be manipulated by placing malicious content in directories with higher precedence in the search order. The vulnerability essentially allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to compromised systems. Since Electron applications often run with elevated privileges, particularly when performing system-level operations, the successful exploitation of this vulnerability can result in complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to install backdoors, modify system files, or exfiltrate sensitive data, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Electron-based applications are commonly deployed. The vulnerability's local nature means that attackers must already have access to the target system, but the privilege escalation potential makes it a significant concern for any application that uses Electron framework components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1202 primarily focus on updating to Electron version 0.33.5 or later, which addresses the untrusted search path issue through improved module resolution mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all Electron-based applications are updated promptly. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing file system permissions and access controls to limit the ability of local users to modify critical directories. The implementation of secure coding practices, such as using absolute paths for module resolution and validating all module sources, can provide additional defense in depth. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, highlighting the need for both prevention and detection measures. Organizations should also consider monitoring for unusual file system activities and module loading patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability requires specific conditions to be met for successful exploitation.