CVE-2022-21824 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2022-21824, a vulnerability related to Node.js.

Understanding CVE-2022-21824

CVE-2022-21824 is a security vulnerability in Node.js that stems from the formatting logic of the "console.table()" function. The issue arises when user-controlled input is allowed in conjunction with passing a plain object as the first parameter, potentially leading to prototype pollution.

What is CVE-2022-21824?

The CVE-2022-21824 vulnerability in Node.js arises from improper handling of user-controlled input in the "properties" parameter while using "console.table()" function, allowing for prototype pollution. The affected Node.js versions include >= 12.22.9, >= 14.18.3, >= 16.13.2, and >= 17.3.1.

The Impact of CVE-2022-21824

The impact of CVE-2022-21824 is that it could lead to prototype pollution, enabling attackers to potentially manipulate object properties by injecting malicious payloads, posing a security risk to Node.js applications.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-21824

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Node.js allows an attacker to exploit prototype pollution by passing user-controlled input to the "properties" parameter along with a plain object, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or data manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include Node.js versions >= 12.22.9, >= 14.18.3, >= 16.13.2, and >= 17.3.1. Users running these versions are at risk of exploitation if the vulnerability is not addressed.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2022-21824 involves crafting a payload that triggers the prototype pollution issue in Node.js, allowing attackers to manipulate object properties and potentially execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the CVE-2022-21824 vulnerability, users are advised to update their Node.js installations to the fixed versions: 12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, and 17.3.1. Additionally, developers should avoid passing user-controlled input to sensitive functions like "console.table()".

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should prioritize secure coding practices, input validation, and regular security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities in Node.js applications.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor security advisories from Node.js and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities and ensure the security of Node.js deployments.