CVE-2018-12116 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Node.js versions prior to 6.15.0 and 8.14.0 are vulnerable to HTTP request splitting, allowing the execution of unexpected HTTP requests.

Understanding CVE-2018-12116

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Node.js related to HTTP request splitting.

What is CVE-2018-12116?

CVE-2018-12116 is a security vulnerability in Node.js versions before 6.15.0 and 8.14.0 that enables HTTP request splitting.

The Impact of CVE-2018-12116

The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger unexpected and customized HTTP requests on the same server by manipulating unsanitized Unicode data in the

path

option of an HTTP request.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-12116

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Node.js allows the execution of additional, unexpected, and customized HTTP requests by exploiting unsanitized Unicode data in the

path

option.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Node.js
Vendor: The Node.js Project
Versions Affected: All versions prior to Node.js 6.15.0 and 8.14.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing unsanitized Unicode data for the

path

option of an HTTP request, leading to the execution of unauthorized HTTP requests.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2018-12116 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Node.js to version 6.15.0 or 8.14.0 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Avoid using unsanitized user-provided data in the

path

option of HTTP requests.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement input validation and sanitization to prevent malicious data manipulation.
Regularly monitor and update Node.js and other dependencies to address security flaws.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by Node.js.