CVE-2019-17221 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2019-17221, a vulnerability in PhantomJS 2.1.1 allowing arbitrary file reading. Learn about affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability has been discovered in PhantomJS version 2.1.1 that allows arbitrary file reading through an XMLHttpRequest for a file:// URI. This vulnerability exists in the page.open() function of the webpage module, enabling attackers to read any file on the filesystem by providing a crafted HTML file as user input.
Understanding CVE-2019-17221
PhantomJS through version 2.1.1 has an arbitrary file read vulnerability that can be exploited through a specially crafted HTML file.
What is CVE-2019-17221?
The vulnerability in PhantomJS version 2.1.1 allows attackers to read arbitrary files on the filesystem by manipulating the page.open() function.
The Impact of CVE-2019-17221
- Attackers can access sensitive files on the system by exploiting this vulnerability.
- The issue poses a risk of unauthorized access to confidential information.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-17221
PhantomJS version 2.1.1 vulnerability details.
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability allows for arbitrary file reading through XMLHttpRequest for a file:// URI.
- Exploitable in the page.open() function of the webpage module.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: PhantomJS
- Version: 2.1.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attacker supplies a specially crafted HTML file as user input.
- By using a specific function callback like page.render(), attackers can generate PDFs or images of targeted files.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address and prevent CVE-2019-17221.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Discontinue the use of PhantomJS as it is no longer developed.
- Implement network segmentation to limit access to critical files.
- Regularly monitor file access and system logs for suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Transition to alternative, actively maintained tools for web automation and testing.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- As the product is no longer developed, consider migrating to supported alternatives.