CVE-2021-26275 in eslint-fixer
Summary
by MITRE • 03/19/2021
** UNSUPPORTED WHEN ASSIGNED ** The eslint-fixer package through 0.1.5 for Node.js allows command injection via shell metacharacters to the fix function. NOTE: This vulnerability only affects products that are no longer supported by the maintainer. The ozum/eslint-fixer GitHub repository has been intentionally deleted.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2024
The eslint-fixer package version 0.1.5 and earlier contains a critical command injection vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary shell commands through malicious input. This vulnerability exists within the fix function of the package, which processes user-provided input without proper sanitization or validation. The flaw arises from insufficient input handling where shell metacharacters can be injected into the command execution flow, enabling attackers to escalate privileges and execute unauthorized system commands. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the shell level, potentially allowing full system compromise when the package is used in automated environments or continuous integration pipelines.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user input within the package's command execution logic. When the fix function processes input parameters, it directly incorporates user-provided data into shell commands without adequate escaping or sanitization mechanisms. This creates an environment where attackers can inject shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or backticks that alter the intended command execution flow. The vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumerations CWE-78 and CWE-88, which specifically address command injection flaws in software applications. These weaknesses represent fundamental security gaps where untrusted data is used to construct command strings that are then executed by the system shell, making them highly exploitable in environments where the application has elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, particularly in automated development environments where eslint-fixer might be integrated into build processes or security scanning pipelines. Attackers who can manipulate input to the fix function could potentially gain complete control over systems running vulnerable versions of the package, especially when the package executes with elevated privileges or in continuous integration contexts. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive development environments. Given that the package was designed for Node.js environments, the impact is amplified in modern development workflows where automated security tools and code quality checkers are routinely executed, making the attack surface larger and more accessible.
Organizations should consider immediate remediation strategies for any systems still utilizing vulnerable versions of eslint-fixer, though the package's deletion from GitHub indicates the maintainer has abandoned support for this software. The recommended mitigation approach involves either upgrading to a supported version if available, implementing input validation and sanitization measures, or removing the package entirely from affected systems. Security teams should also monitor for any potential exploitation attempts through automated scanning tools and network monitoring systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software dependencies and implementing proper input validation practices, particularly in security-sensitive applications where command execution is involved. This case highlights the risks associated with using unsupported software packages and the potential for long-term security implications when maintenance is discontinued by developers.