CVE-2020-7782 in spritesheet-js
Summary
by MITRE • 02/09/2021
This affects all versions of package spritesheet-js. It depends on a vulnerable package platform-command. The injection point is located in line 32 in lib/generator.js, which is triggered by main entry of the package.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-7782 represents a critical security flaw within the spritesheet-js package ecosystem, affecting all versions of this popular npm package used for sprite sheet generation. This issue stems from a transitive dependency on the vulnerable platform-command package, creating a chain of exposure that extends beyond the immediate package boundaries. The vulnerability manifests through a command injection attack vector that originates from the main entry point of the spritesheet-js package, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered by any application or workflow that utilizes this package. The attack surface is broadened by the nature of the dependency chain, as developers may unknowingly incorporate this vulnerability into their projects through standard installation processes.
The technical exploitation occurs at line 32 within the lib/generator.js file, which serves as the core processing module for the spritesheet-js functionality. This injection point represents a classic command injection vulnerability where user-controllable input is improperly sanitized before being passed to system execution functions. The flaw exists because the package fails to properly validate or escape command arguments that are constructed from external inputs, allowing an attacker to inject malicious commands that will be executed by the underlying system. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a direct violation of secure coding practices for input validation and sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-7782 extends far beyond the immediate package scope, as it can affect any application or development environment that relies on spritesheet-js for image processing workflows. Attackers could potentially execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable applications, leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through legitimate package usage patterns, making detection difficult and exploitation straightforward for attackers who understand the dependency chain. This creates a significant risk for organizations that use spritesheet-js in their build processes, deployment pipelines, or web applications that process user-uploaded content, as the injection could occur through seemingly benign operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-7782 require immediate action to address the transitive dependency vulnerability in platform-command package, followed by comprehensive auditing of all applications and systems that utilize spritesheet-js. Organizations should implement dependency pinning to ensure specific, non-vulnerable versions are used, while also conducting thorough security assessments of their entire dependency tree to identify similar vulnerabilities. The recommended approach includes updating to patched versions of both spritesheet-js and platform-command, implementing strict input validation for any user-controlled data, and establishing automated dependency scanning processes to prevent future introduction of vulnerable packages. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns, as outlined in the attack patterns documented under the MITRE ATT&CK framework for command and control activities. Regular security training for development teams is essential to prevent reintroduction of vulnerable dependencies and to foster secure coding practices that address the root causes of such injection vulnerabilities.