CVE-2020-28447 in xopen
Summary
by MITRE • 07/25/2022
This affects all versions of package xopen. The injection point is located in line 14 in index.js in the exported function xopen(filepath)
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-28447 resides within the xopen npm package, affecting all versions of this utility that handles file operations across multiple platforms. This package serves as a cross-platform file opening utility that automatically determines the appropriate command to open files based on the operating system. The flaw manifests specifically within the exported function xopen in the index.js file at line 14, where the package fails to properly sanitize or validate input parameters before constructing system commands. This creates a potential command injection vulnerability that could be exploited by malicious actors who control the filepath parameter passed to the function.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the package's reliance on shell commands to open files across different operating systems. When a user provides a filepath to the xopen function, the package constructs a command string that is then executed through the system shell. The lack of proper input validation means that attackers can inject malicious shell commands through specially crafted filepath parameters. This flaw directly maps to CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a classic command injection vulnerability that can be exploited across multiple platforms. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be triggered through any code path that utilizes the vulnerable xopen function with untrusted input.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it can enable attackers to perform arbitrary code execution on systems where the vulnerable package is installed. An attacker who can influence the filepath parameter could potentially execute malicious commands with the privileges of the user running the application. This risk is particularly concerning in environments where the package is used in web applications, automated systems, or server-side code where user input is processed without proper sanitization. The vulnerability can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within network environments. The attack surface is broad since any application using the xopen package with user-controlled input could be vulnerable.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-28447 should focus on immediate remediation through package updates, as the maintainers have likely released patched versions that properly sanitize input parameters before command construction. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all applications and systems using the vulnerable xopen package, particularly in environments where user input is processed. The implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures should be enforced at all levels where file paths are handled, including the use of parameterized commands or safe execution methods that avoid direct shell command construction. Security teams should also consider implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to detect potential exploitation attempts involving command injection patterns. Additionally, developers should follow secure coding practices that align with ATT&CK framework techniques such as T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, emphasizing the importance of proper input validation and secure command execution patterns to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles.