CVE-2020-13623 in JerryScript
Summary
by MITRE
JerryScript 2.2.0 allows attackers to cause a denial of service (stack consumption) via a proxy operation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/28/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-13623 affects JerryScript version 2.2.0, a lightweight javascript engine designed for embedded systems and IoT devices. This issue represents a denial of service condition that specifically targets stack consumption during proxy operations, making it particularly dangerous in resource-constrained environments where stack space is limited. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of proxy objects within the javascript engine's execution environment, creating a scenario where malicious input can trigger excessive stack usage that ultimately leads to system instability or complete crash.
The technical flaw manifests when the JerryScript engine processes proxy operations that involve recursive or deeply nested object access patterns. During proxy handler execution, the engine fails to properly validate or limit the depth of nested operations, allowing attackers to craft specific javascript code that causes the interpreter to consume excessive stack memory. This behavior aligns with CWE-772, which describes insufficient resource pool sizing, and specifically relates to stack overflow conditions that occur when recursion depth exceeds available stack space. The vulnerability exploits the engine's lack of proper stack depth monitoring during proxy operation execution, creating a path where attacker-controlled input can directly influence stack consumption patterns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise entire embedded systems that rely on JerryScript for runtime javascript execution. In IoT devices, smart home appliances, or industrial control systems where JerryScript is embedded, an attacker could trigger a denial of service condition that renders the device unusable until manual reboot occurs. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through legitimate javascript execution paths, making detection difficult and allowing attackers to remain undetected while consuming system resources. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which covers network denial of service attacks, specifically targeting resource exhaustion in system components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-13623 require immediate patching of JerryScript to version 2.3.0 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proxy operation handling and stack consumption limits. Organizations should also implement runtime monitoring to detect unusual stack consumption patterns and consider implementing stack depth limits within their javascript execution environments. Additional defensive measures include validating all javascript input through sandboxing mechanisms and implementing rate limiting for proxy operations to prevent abuse. The fix addresses the root cause by introducing proper stack depth validation during proxy handler execution, preventing recursive operations from consuming excessive memory resources. Security teams should prioritize this vulnerability in their patch management schedules, particularly in environments where embedded javascript execution is critical to system functionality, as the denial of service condition can have cascading effects on connected systems and network availability.