CVE-2023-32002:Node.js Module._load() Bypass of Experimental Policy Mechanism

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A vulnerability in Node.js allows the use of Module._load() to bypass the experimental policy mechanism, enabling modules to be required outside of the policy.json definition. This affects all users using the experimental policy mechanism in Node.js versions 16.x, 18.x, and 20.x.

Overview

The vulnerability (CVE-2023-32002) exists in Node.js's experimental policy mechanism. When using Module._load(), applications can bypass security restrictions defined in policy.json files, allowing unauthorized modules to be loaded that would otherwise be blocked by the policy. This undermines the security guarantees provided by the policy mechanism, which is designed to restrict which modules can be loaded in an application. Although this feature is experimental, it's available in all active Node.js release lines (16.x, 18.x, and 20.x), and users relying on it for security boundaries may be affected.

Remediation

Users should implement one or more of the following measures:

  1. Update to the latest Node.js version that includes patches for this vulnerability
  2. If using the experimental policy mechanism as a security boundary, consider implementing additional security controls
  3. Review applications for use of Module._load() and ensure it's not being used to circumvent policy restrictions
  4. Consider using alternative security mechanisms until the policy feature is stabilized
  5. Monitor application behavior for unexpected module loading

References

  1. HackerOne Report: https://hackerone.com/reports/1960870
  2. NetApp Security Advisory: https://security.netapp.com/advisory/ntap-20230915-0009/
  3. Node.js Security Policy Documentation: https://nodejs.org/api/permissions.html#policies

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  2. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  3. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  4. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  5. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  8. Utilities
    Utilities
  9. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  10. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  11. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  12. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  13. Information
    Information
  14. Construction
    Construction
  15. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  16. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  17. Mining
    Mining
  18. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  19. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade
  20. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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