CVE-2024-23339 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2024-23339 is related to a vulnerability in the hoolock utility suite that does not block Prototype pollution with object-path related utilities.

Understanding CVE-2024-23339

This vulnerability impacts hoolock utility suite versions 2.0.0 to 2.2.1, allowing unauthorized access to and alteration of object prototypes through utility functions related to object paths.

What is CVE-2024-23339?

hoolock is a suite of lightweight utilities intended to have a small footprint when bundled. The affected versions, prior to 2.2.1, did not prevent attempts to access or modify object prototypes using utility functions like

get

,

set

, and

update

.

The Impact of CVE-2024-23339

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM with a base score of 6.3. It allows for unauthorized modification of object prototype attributes, leading to potential confidentiality, integrity, and availability issues.

Technical Details of CVE-2024-23339

The following details provide insights into the vulnerability and its implications:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper control over the modification of object prototype attributes, known as 'Prototype Pollution,' within the hoolock utility suite versions 2.0.0 to 2.2.1.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is the hoolock utility suite, specifically versions greater than or equal to 2.0.0 and less than 2.2.1. Users operating on these versions are susceptible to unauthorized object prototype alteration.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation involves utilizing the utility functions related to object paths in hoolock, such as

get

,

set

, and

update

, to bypass security measures and manipulate object prototypes.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2024-23339, consider the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their hoolock utility suite to version 2.2.1 or later, where the vulnerability has been rectified.
Avoid using utility functions like

get

,

set

, and

update

in versions prior to 2.2.1 to prevent unauthorized access to object prototypes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to mitigate the risk of prototype pollution vulnerabilities in software development.
Regularly monitor and update dependencies to ensure security patches are applied promptly.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from the hoolock utility suite provider to address potential vulnerabilities promptly.
Prioritize the installation of patches and updates to safeguard systems against known security risks.