CVE-2024-38989 in bunt
Summary
by MITRE • 08/12/2024
izatop bunt v0.29.19 was discovered to contain a prototype pollution via the component /esm/qs.js. This vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a Denial of Service (DoS) via injecting arbitrary properties.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-38989 affects the izatop bunt tool version 0.29.19 and represents a critical prototype pollution flaw within the /esm/qs.js component. This type of vulnerability occurs when an application fails to properly sanitize user input before using it to modify object prototypes, allowing attackers to inject malicious properties into the prototype chain. The affected qs.js module is commonly used for parsing query strings and handling data serialization, making it a prime target for exploitation in web applications and server-side environments. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of object property assignment during data processing operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate the underlying JavaScript object model.
Prototype pollution vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-1321 category and can lead to severe security consequences when exploited effectively. The attack vector involves injecting malicious data structures that get processed by the vulnerable qs.js component, resulting in modifications to the Object.prototype or other critical prototype objects. When this occurs, any subsequent object creation or property access may be influenced by the polluted prototype, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code through prototype-based attacks or cause denial of service conditions by corrupting application state. The specific nature of this vulnerability in the izatop bunt tool means that any application relying on this component for query string parsing or data handling is at risk of exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise and service disruption. Attackers can leverage prototype pollution to bypass security controls, manipulate application behavior, or cause unpredictable system failures that may result in complete service unavailability. The DoS aspect of this vulnerability can be particularly damaging in production environments where the affected tool is used for critical operations. Additionally, the arbitrary code execution capability provides attackers with opportunities to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from affected systems. This vulnerability affects not only the immediate tool but any system or application that consumes the polluted prototype objects through subsequent processing.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-38989 should prioritize immediate patching of the izatop bunt tool to version 0.29.20 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the prototype pollution issue. Organizations should also implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious data from reaching vulnerable components, particularly in applications that process user-supplied query strings or serialized data. The implementation of prototype pollution detection mechanisms and runtime protections can provide additional layers of defense. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any other instances of the affected qs.js component within their infrastructure and ensure that all dependencies are updated to secure versions. Monitoring for unusual object property modifications and implementing proper access controls can help detect exploitation attempts and minimize the impact of successful attacks. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping all third-party libraries and components updated, as prototype pollution issues can remain undetected for extended periods while providing attackers with persistent access vectors.