CVE-2023-23918 : Security Advisory and Response

This article delves into the details of CVE-2023-23918, a privilege escalation vulnerability found in certain versions of Node.js.

Understanding CVE-2023-23918

Node.js versions below 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3 contain a vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation, circumventing the experimental Permissions feature in Node.js. This flaw enables unauthorized access to modules using process.mainModule.require() for users who have activated the experimental permissions option with --experimental-policy.

What is CVE-2023-23918?

CVE-2023-23918 is a privilege escalation vulnerability that impacts specific versions of Node.js, enabling unauthorized access to non-authorized modules through the exploitation of the experimental Permissions feature.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23918

This vulnerability poses a security risk to users of affected Node.js versions, providing attackers with the ability to bypass permission restrictions and gain unauthorized access to modules, potentially leading to further exploit chains and attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23918

Upon closer examination, the following technical aspects of CVE-2023-23918 come to light:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Node.js versions below 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3 allows for privilege escalation through the bypassing of the experimental Permissions feature, granting access to non-authorized modules.

Affected Systems and Versions

The privilege escalation vulnerability impacts users of Node.js versions prior to 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3 who have activated the experimental permissions option using --experimental-policy.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the process.mainModule.require() function, attackers can exploit the vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to modules, bypassing permission restrictions in affected versions of Node.js.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23918 and enhance security measures, users and admins can take the following actions:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Node.js to fixed versions 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, or 14.21.3 to mitigate the privilege escalation vulnerability.
Disable the experimental Permissions feature if not required for immediate operational needs.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and vulnerabilities in Node.js to stay informed about potential risks.
Implement least privilege access controls and strong authentication measures to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay vigilant for official security advisories and updates from Node.js to promptly apply patches addressing identified vulnerabilities, ensuring a secure and robust environment.