CVE-2020-28439 in corenlp-js-prefab
Summary
by MITRE • 12/11/2020
This affects all versions of package corenlp-js-prefab. The injection point is located in line 10 in 'index.js.' It depends on a vulnerable package 'corenlp-js-interface.' Vulnerability can be exploited with the following PoC:
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-28439 represents a critical security flaw within the corenlp-js-prefab package ecosystem, affecting all versions of this npm package. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that allow for arbitrary code execution through maliciously crafted inputs. The injection point specifically occurs in the index.js file at line 10, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it leverages a dependency chain that includes the vulnerable corenlp-js-interface package, creating a cascading security risk that extends beyond the immediate package scope. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specific payloads that bypass normal input validation checks and directly manipulate the underlying JavaScript execution environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common software security patterns that fall under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')." This classification indicates that the application is generating code or executing commands based on user-provided input without adequate sanitization or validation measures. The attack vector specifically targets the JavaScript runtime environment where the corenlp-js-prefab package operates, potentially allowing adversaries to execute arbitrary commands on the host system. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites since it operates at the application level rather than requiring complex system-level privileges or specialized attack infrastructure. The dependency chain through corenlp-js-interface amplifies the impact as any application using corenlp-js-prefab becomes vulnerable to the same attack vectors, creating widespread potential for compromise across different systems and deployments.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-28439 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass full system compromise potential. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable attackers to perform privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and persistent system access through the execution of malicious JavaScript code within the application context. The vulnerability's presence in a widely-used package means that numerous applications and systems may be unknowingly exposed to this risk, creating a significant attack surface for threat actors. Organizations relying on corenlp-js-prefab for natural language processing tasks may find their systems compromised, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The impact is particularly severe in environments where these packages are used for processing sensitive data or in applications with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-28439 should prioritize immediate remediation through package version updates and dependency management. Organizations must conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems utilizing the affected package and its dependencies. The recommended approach includes updating to patched versions of both corenlp-js-prefab and corenlp-js-interface, while implementing strict input validation and sanitization measures. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should establish robust dependency management practices including regular security audits of third-party packages and implementation of automated vulnerability scanning tools. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript," indicating that exploitation would involve JavaScript-based attack vectors that could be detected through proper monitoring of application execution patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting and runtime protection mechanisms to prevent unauthorized code execution and further reduce the risk of successful exploitation.