CVE-2020-15779 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Path Traversal issue was discovered in the socket.io-file package through 2.0.31 for Node.js. The socket.io-file::createFile message uses path.join with ../ in the name option, and the uploadDir and rename options determine the path.

Understanding CVE-2020-15779

This CVE involves a Path Traversal vulnerability in the socket.io-file package for Node.js.

What is CVE-2020-15779?

The vulnerability allows an attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that should be restricted.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15779

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files, data leakage, and potential manipulation of critical system files.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15779

The technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the improper handling of file paths in the socket.io-file::createFile message, enabling malicious actors to traverse directories.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected package: socket.io-file
Versions impacted: up to 2.0.31 for Node.js

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation involves manipulating the name, uploadDir, and rename options to traverse directories and access unauthorized files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures against CVE-2020-15779.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the socket.io-file package to a non-vulnerable version.
Implement input validation to prevent path traversal attacks.
Restrict access permissions to sensitive directories.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit file access and modification.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent path traversal vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by the package maintainers.