CVE-2019-10787 in im-resize
Summary
by MITRE
im-resize through 2.3.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via the "exec" argument. The cmd argument used within index.js, can be controlled by user without any sanitization.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-10787 affects the im-resize library version 2.3.2 and earlier, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that exposes applications using this component to significant security risks. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the library's command execution mechanism, specifically in the index.js file where user-controlled data flows directly into system command invocation without proper sanitization or filtering. The vulnerability occurs when the library processes an "exec" argument that contains user-supplied data, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary commands that will be executed with the privileges of the application process. This flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal application security controls and execute any command available on the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process user uploads or image manipulation requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses OS Command Injection flaws in software systems. The root cause lies in the improper handling of user input within the command execution context, where the cmd argument becomes a direct conduit for malicious code execution. When an attacker provides crafted input through the exec parameter, the library fails to sanitize or validate the input before passing it to system execution functions, creating a classic command injection vulnerability. This pattern is commonly exploited in web applications where image processing libraries are used to handle user-uploaded content, making the attack surface particularly wide and accessible to threat actors who can leverage this weakness through standard web application interfaces.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-10787 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute commands such as file system enumeration, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or even establish persistent backdoors within the affected system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for applications deployed in cloud environments or publicly accessible services. Organizations using vulnerable versions of im-resize may find their systems compromised without proper detection, as the executed commands can be designed to avoid obvious logging or monitoring mechanisms, potentially allowing attackers to maintain long-term access to the compromised environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through version updates, as the issue has been resolved in subsequent releases of the im-resize library. Organizations must prioritize updating their dependencies to versions that properly sanitize user input before command execution, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The recommended approach includes implementing strict input filtering, using parameterized command execution where possible, and employing principle of least privilege when running image processing applications. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious command execution patterns, and conduct comprehensive security assessments of all applications that utilize vulnerable libraries to ensure complete remediation across their entire software ecosystem. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of dependency security monitoring and regular security audits to prevent similar issues from arising in other components of the software supply chain.