CVE-2019-5485 in gitlabhook
Summary
by MITRE
NPM package gitlabhook version 0.0.17 is vulnerable to a Command Injection vulnerability. Arbitrary commands can be injected through the repository name.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5485 affects the npm package gitlabhook version 0.0.17 and represents a critical command injection flaw that enables attackers to execute arbitrary system commands through manipulated input parameters. This vulnerability specifically targets the repository name parameter within the gitlabhook package, which is commonly used to process webhook events from gitlab servers. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the package's command execution logic, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject shell commands that will be executed with the privileges of the user running the gitlabhook process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the gitlabhook package processes incoming webhook data containing a repository name parameter that has not been properly sanitized. When the package constructs system commands using this unsanitized input, it creates a path for command injection attacks. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, making it a direct descendant of the well-known command injection weakness category. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because webhook processing typically occurs in automated environments where the executing user may have elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited by malicious actors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in continuous integration and deployment environments where gitlabhook is commonly used to automate build and deployment processes, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify source code, inject malicious payloads, or gain unauthorized access to production systems. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system tools to execute commands and maintain persistence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5485 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization practices. Organizations should prioritize updating to a patched version of the gitlabhook package if available, or implementing strict input validation mechanisms that prevent special characters from being passed directly to system commands. The implementation of parameterized command execution or using safer alternative approaches such as the use of libraries that properly escape command arguments can effectively neutralize this vulnerability. Additionally, system administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while monitoring for unusual command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other npm packages and prevent future incidents of this nature.