CVE-2020-28445 in npm-help
Summary
by MITRE • 07/25/2022
This affects all versions of package npm-help. The injection point is located in line 13 in index.js file in export.latestVersion() function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-28445 resides within the npm-help package, affecting all versions of this npm module. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the package's codebase. The injection point specifically manifests in the index.js file at line 13, within the export.latestVersion() function, making it a targeted attack vector that could be exploited by malicious actors seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of this package.
The technical flaw constitutes a code injection vulnerability that arises from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input passed to the latestVersion() function. This function likely processes version information or package metadata that could be manipulated by attackers to inject malicious code or commands. The vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning because npm-help is a package that typically operates in development environments where attackers might gain elevated privileges or access to sensitive system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on systems where vulnerable versions of npm-help are installed. This poses significant risks in development environments where developers might unknowingly execute malicious code when using the package. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in continuous integration environments or automated build systems where npm-help might be invoked programmatically, potentially allowing attackers to compromise entire development pipelines or gain unauthorized access to source code repositories. The attack could result in data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within network environments where vulnerable systems exist.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-28445 should prioritize immediate version updates to the latest secure release of npm-help, as this represents the most direct and effective remediation approach. Organizations should implement comprehensive dependency scanning and monitoring to identify all instances of vulnerable npm-help installations across their infrastructure. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" as attackers could leverage this code injection to execute malicious JavaScript or PowerShell commands. Additionally, implementing strict npm package verification processes, including checksum validation and trusted registry sources, would significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential lateral movement if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, while maintaining detailed audit logs of npm package installations and usage patterns to detect anomalous behavior.