CVE-2023-38704 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed analysis of the CVE-2023-38704 impacting import-in-the-middle module interception utility.

Understanding CVE-2023-38704

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-38704.

What is CVE-2023-38704?

import-in-the-middle, a module loading interceptor for ESM modules, contains a vulnerability allowing unsanitized user-controlled input during module generation. This vulnerability, labeled as CWE-20: Improper Input Validation, affects versions prior to 1.4.2.

The Impact of CVE-2023-38704

The vulnerability in import-in-the-middle allows for remote code execution when user-supplied input is directly passed to the

import()

function, potentially leading to security breaches and unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-38704

Exploring the technical aspects of CVE-2023-38704.

Vulnerability Description

import-in-the-middle version prior to 1.4.2 permits remote code execution by accepting user-controlled input directly into the module loading process, posing a significant security risk.

Affected Systems and Versions

DataDog's import-in-the-middle versions less than 1.4.2 are impacted by this vulnerability. Users with these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability arises from improper input validation, allowing threat actors to inject and execute malicious code through user-controlled input in the ESM module loading process.

Mitigation and Prevention

Guidelines on how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-38704.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid passing any user-generated input directly to the

import()

function. Ensure input validation against authorized values to prevent malicious code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

For enhanced security, refrain from setting any options that may enable loader hooks when utilizing import-in-the-middle or similar utilities.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to update import-in-the-middle to version 1.4.2 or higher, where the vulnerability has been addressed to prevent exploitation.