CVE-2018-13797 in macaddress
Summary
by MITRE
The macaddress module before 0.2.9 for Node.js is prone to an arbitrary command injection flaw, due to allowing unsanitized input to an exec (rather than execFile) call.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-13797 affects the macaddress module version 0.2.8 and earlier in Node.js environments, representing a critical security flaw that enables arbitrary command injection attacks. This issue stems from the module's improper handling of user input within its execution logic, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized system commands. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the module processes network interface information and fails to sanitize input before passing it to system execution functions, making it particularly dangerous in environments where untrusted data might be processed.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the module's implementation using exec() instead of execFile() for command execution. This design choice creates a direct injection vector where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted as shell commands by the underlying operating system. The flaw aligns with CWE-78, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a classic command injection vulnerability that allows arbitrary code execution. When the macaddress module encounters certain network interface names or identifiers, it passes these directly to the exec() function without proper sanitization or validation, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands that will execute with the privileges of the Node.js process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive system resources and data. An attacker who can influence the input to the macaddress module could execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications where user input might flow through the macaddress module, as it could enable remote code execution attacks. The attack surface expands when considering that the module might be used in development tools, monitoring systems, or any application that retrieves and processes network interface information, making it a widespread concern across Node.js applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-13797 require immediate action to upgrade the macaddress module to version 0.2.9 or later, which addresses the command injection vulnerability through proper input sanitization and the use of execFile() instead of exec(). Organizations should also implement runtime protections such as input validation, privilege separation, and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns. The remediation process should include comprehensive code audits to identify all instances where the vulnerable module is used, particularly in applications that process user-provided network interface information or system identifiers. Security teams should also consider implementing network-level protections and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. Additionally, developers should adopt secure coding practices that avoid using exec() with unsanitized input and instead leverage safer alternatives that provide better control over command execution and input handling.