CVE-2022-41713 in deep-object-diff
Summary
by MITRE • 11/04/2022
deep-object-diff version 1.1.0 allows an external attacker to edit or add new properties to an object. This is possible because the application does not properly validate incoming JSON keys, thus allowing the '__proto__' property to be edited.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-41713 resides within the deep-object-diff library version 1.1.0, representing a critical security flaw that enables arbitrary code execution through prototype pollution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects applications that utilize the library to compare and diff objects, creating a dangerous pathway for attackers to manipulate object prototypes and potentially execute malicious code. The issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize JSON keys during object processing operations.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the library's failure to validate incoming JSON keys, particularly allowing the '_proto_' property to be modified during object comparison operations. When an attacker supplies malicious JSON data containing prototype-polluting keys, the library processes these inputs without proper sanitization, enabling the modification of Object.prototype properties. This behavior creates a prototype pollution vector that can be exploited across various JavaScript environments where the library is implemented. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-471, which describes the weakness of using insecure functions that allow modification of object prototypes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation, potentially enabling attackers to achieve remote code execution or privilege escalation within affected applications. When prototype pollution occurs, it can affect the behavior of all objects in the JavaScript environment, as properties added to Object.prototype become available to all objects. This can lead to various security consequences including but not limited to denial of service attacks, data corruption, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability affects applications that rely on deep-object-diff for object comparison, merge, or diff operations, making it particularly dangerous in web applications, backend services, and API endpoints that process user-supplied data.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically under the technique of "Prototype Pollution" which falls under the broader category of "Execution" and "Persistence" tactics. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web applications, server-side processing, and API endpoints that accept JSON input. Organizations should immediately assess their dependency on the affected library version and implement proper input validation measures. The recommended mitigation strategies include upgrading to a patched version of the deep-object-diff library, implementing strict JSON key validation, and employing runtime protections such as prototype pollution detection mechanisms. Additionally, developers should adopt secure coding practices that prevent direct assignment to prototype properties and implement comprehensive input sanitization routines to prevent similar vulnerabilities in custom code implementations.