CVE-2019-5737 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability in Node.js versions prior to 6.17.0, 8.15.1, 10.15.2, and 11.10.1 allows attackers to execute a Denial of Service (DoS) attack by manipulating HTTP or HTTPS connections. This CVE expands on a previously addressed vulnerability (CVE-2018-12121).

Understanding CVE-2019-5737

This CVE affects Node.js and poses a risk of DoS attacks through slow header transmissions during connection establishment.

What is CVE-2019-5737?

In Node.js versions before 6.17.0, 8.15.1, 10.15.2, and 11.10.1, attackers can exploit slow header transmissions to keep connections active, potentially leading to DoS attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5737

This vulnerability enables attackers to cause DoS attacks by prolonging the connection and associated resources, affecting all active Node.js release lines.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5737

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute DoS attacks by slowly sending headers during HTTP or HTTPS connection setup.

Affected Systems and Versions

Node.js versions prior to 6.17.0
Node.js versions prior to 8.15.1
Node.js versions prior to 10.15.2
Node.js versions prior to 11.10.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit slow header transmissions during connection establishment to keep connections active, potentially leading to DoS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-5737 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Node.js to versions 6.17.0, 8.15.1, 10.15.2, or 11.10.1 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement network-level protections like load balancers or proxies to mitigate potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update Node.js to the latest secure versions.
Employ network security measures to detect and prevent DoS attacks.

Patching and Updates

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