CVE-2023-26139 in underscore-keypath
Summary
by MITRE • 08/01/2023
Versions of the package underscore-keypath from 0.0.11 are vulnerable to Prototype Pollution via the name argument of the setProperty() function. Exploiting this vulnerability is possible due to improper input sanitization which allows the usage of arguments like “__proto__”.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-26139 affects the underscore-keypath package version 0.0.11 and later, presenting a critical prototype pollution flaw that can be exploited through the setProperty() function. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the package's implementation, specifically when processing the name argument parameter. The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate object prototypes by injecting malicious input containing prototype-related keywords such as "_proto_". The root cause aligns with CWE-471, which describes the scenario where a program modifies a data structure or object in a way that affects the object's behavior or the behavior of other objects in the same class. This particular flaw represents a classic prototype pollution vulnerability that can be leveraged to alter the behavior of JavaScript objects at runtime.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation, as prototype pollution can lead to severe consequences including remote code execution, denial of service, and privilege escalation within affected applications. When an attacker successfully injects prototype pollution payloads through the setProperty() function, they can modify the behavior of core JavaScript objects such as Object.prototype, which affects all objects in the application. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited in applications that process user input through the underscore-keypath library, potentially allowing attackers to compromise entire application stacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1548.005, which covers abuse of privileges through prototype pollution, making it a significant concern for application security teams.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-26139 should prioritize immediate remediation through updating to a patched version of the underscore-keypath package where available. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures across all applications that utilize this library, particularly focusing on validating and filtering any user-supplied arguments passed to the setProperty() function. Security teams should also consider implementing runtime protections such as prototype pollution detection mechanisms and regular security scanning of npm dependencies to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the need for developers to understand the implications of prototype manipulation in JavaScript environments, as highlighted by the CWE-358 standard for input validation weaknesses. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough code reviews and dependency audits to ensure that no other libraries within their application stack are susceptible to similar prototype pollution attacks.