CVE-2019-16769 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Serialize-javascript npm package versions prior to 2.1.1 are vulnerable to Cross-site Scripting (XSS) attacks in non-Node.js environments.

Understanding CVE-2019-16769

Affected versions of serialize-javascript are susceptible to XSS attacks due to improper handling of dangerous characters in serialized regular expressions.

What is CVE-2019-16769?

The vulnerability in serialize-javascript npm package (versions < 2.1.1) allows for XSS attacks in environments other than Node.js, as it fails to handle dangerous characters in serialized regular expressions effectively.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16769

CVSS Score: 4.2 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Integrity Impact: Low
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None
Availability Impact: Low
Confidentiality Impact: None
This vulnerability affects environments other than Node.js, as Node.js automatically mitigates the issue by escaping forward slashes in regular expressions.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16769

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: serialize-javascript
Vendor: Yahoo
Affected Version: < 2.1.1 (custom version)

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the package's inability to handle dangerous characters in serialized regular expressions.

Affected Systems and Versions

serialize-javascript versions < 2.1.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation involves injecting malicious scripts through serialized regular expressions in non-Node.js environments.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 2.1.1 or higher to mitigate the XSS vulnerability.
Avoid using serialized regular expressions in non-Node.js environments.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates related to serialize-javascript.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates promptly to address security issues in serialize-javascript.