CVE-2018-25083 in pullit
Summary
by MITRE • 03/27/2023
The pullit package before 1.4.0 for Node.js allows OS Command Injection because eval is used on an attacker-supplied Git branch name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/15/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-25083 affects the pullit package version 1.4.0 and earlier in the Node.js ecosystem, presenting a critical operating system command injection flaw that can be exploited by malicious actors. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the package's Git branch name processing functionality, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows remote code execution on affected systems.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the use of the eval function with attacker-controlled Git branch names, which directly violates secure coding principles and establishes a clear path for command injection attacks. When the pullit package processes Git branch names, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before executing system commands, enabling an attacker to inject arbitrary OS commands through maliciously crafted branch names. This pattern aligns with CWE-94, which specifically addresses the execution of code from untrusted sources, and represents a classic example of improper input validation leading to command injection vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform arbitrary operations on the compromised system with the privileges of the Node.js process. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify system configurations, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where the pullit package is used for automated deployment processes or continuous integration workflows, as it can be exploited to compromise entire development pipelines and infrastructure. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries execute malicious commands through legitimate system interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to upgrade to pullit version 1.4.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the command injection flaw. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures, avoiding the use of eval functions with user-supplied data in any system components. Additionally, security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their Node.js applications to identify similar patterns where dynamic code execution might be occurring. The fix implemented in version 1.4.0 likely involves proper input sanitization, parameterized command execution, or the complete removal of eval usage, thereby aligning with industry best practices for preventing command injection vulnerabilities. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns that might indicate attempted exploitation of this vulnerability.