CVE-2021-44532 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Node.js versions before 12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, and 17.3.1 are susceptible to an injection vulnerability related to Subject Alternative Names (SANs) conversion.

Understanding CVE-2021-44532

Node.js versions prior to specific releases have a critical security flaw that allows the bypass of name constraints.

What is CVE-2021-44532?

Node.js versions before 12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, and 17.3.1 mishandle SANs conversion, potentially leading to an injection vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-44532

This vulnerability permits the bypass of name constraints within certificate chains, exposing systems to potential security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-44532

Node.js versions susceptible to injection vulnerabilities related to SANs conversion.

Vulnerability Description

Node.js versions before specified releases are vulnerable to injection attacks, allowing threat actors to bypass name constraints in certificate chains.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Node.js
Versions: Fixed in 12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, 17.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to manipulate SANs during certificate validation, evading name constraints.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to secure systems and prevent exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Node.js to versions 12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, or 17.3.1
Avoid exposure to untrusted certificates
Utilize security mechanisms to restrict certificate usage

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement proper certificate and key management practices

Patching and Updates

Update Node.js to the patched versions (12.22.9, 14.18.3, 16.13.2, 17.3.1) to mitigate the vulnerability.