CVE-2023-42810: Critical bug in systeminformation Node.js library with 8 monthly downloads
CVE-2023-42810 is a critical command injection vulnerability in systeminformation, a popular Node.js library for retrieving system information. This vulnerability could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system, giving them complete control over the system.
At the heart of this issue is the System Information Library for Node.JS – a comprehensive open-source collection, characterized by its proficiency in furnishing detailed data about hardware, system, and OS. Packaged as the npm module ‘systeminformation’, this library is not a lightweight entity. Its significance is underscored by a staggering 8 million monthly downloads, amounting to over 200 million downloads in total. Given this popularity, any vulnerability associated with it warrants immediate attention.
CVE-2023-42810 (CVSS score of 9.8, calculated by Github) stems from a sinister SSID command injection flaw specifically within the `wifiConnections()` and `wifiNetworks()` functions. The mechanics of exploitation are worryingly straightforward: an attacker, leveraging a carefully crafted request, can potentially exploit this flaw to remotely execute arbitrary commands on the victim’s system. The ramifications can be detrimental, ranging from unauthorized data access to a complete system takeover.
Systemadministrators and developers need to be aware that versions from 5.0.0 to 5.21.6 are susceptible to this vulnerability.
In response to the discovery of this flaw, a patch was promptly issued. The crux of the fix lies in the implementation of a stringent parameter check. To safeguard your systems and data:
1. Upgrade Promptly: For those utilizing the library, it is imperative to transition to version 5.21.7 or later. It’s worth noting that those on Version 4 are in the clear, as this particular iteration remains unaffected.
2. Sanitize Inputs: If, for some reason, an upgrade is not immediately feasible, ensure that you meticulously check or sanitize parameter strings that are relayed to `wifiConnections()`, `wifiNetworks()` functions. Remember, these functions should only process string inputs.
