CVE-2017-16049 in nodesqlite
Summary
by MITRE
`nodesqlite` was a malicious module published with the intent to hijack environment variables. It has been unpublished by npm.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2020
The CVE-2017-16049 vulnerability represents a sophisticated supply chain attack targeting the node.js ecosystem through the npm package registry. This malicious module named nodesqlite was specifically designed to exploit the trust model inherent in package managers by masquerading as a legitimate database driver while containing hidden malicious functionality. The module's publication and subsequent removal from the npm registry demonstrates how attackers can leverage the open nature of package repositories to distribute harmful code that appears to be legitimate software components.
The technical flaw within the nodesqlite module centered on its ability to manipulate environment variables during execution, which represents a critical security weakness that could compromise system integrity and user data. The malicious code was crafted to intercept and potentially exfiltrate sensitive information stored in environment variables, which often contain database credentials, API keys, and other confidential data that applications rely upon for proper operation. This type of attack aligns with common attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under the technique of "Modify Environment Variables" and represents a form of credential theft that can lead to broader system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass potential system infiltration and persistent access capabilities. When developers install the malicious package as part of their application dependencies, the module executes within their development environment and can establish backdoor access or data exfiltration channels. The attack vector demonstrates how attackers can bypass traditional security measures by embedding malicious code within what appears to be legitimate software, making detection particularly challenging for security teams. Organizations relying on npm packages for their applications face significant risk when malicious modules are published, as the trust model of package managers makes such attacks particularly effective.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defense including enhanced package verification processes, implementation of automated security scanning tools, and strict dependency management practices. Organizations should implement package integrity checks using tools like npm audit or third-party security platforms that can detect suspicious package behaviors. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining updated security practices and understanding the supply chain risks associated with third-party dependencies. According to CWE guidelines, this vulnerability relates to CWE-494: Download of Code Without Integrity Check, emphasizing the need for cryptographic verification of package integrity. Security teams must also consider implementing network monitoring to detect unusual outbound communications that might indicate data exfiltration attempts, while maintaining awareness of the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for PowerShell and T1059.008 for Command and Scripting Interpreter to identify potential malicious command execution patterns.