CVE-2023-35931 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-35931, a vulnerability impacting the shescape library for JavaScript on Windows environments with CMD.

Understanding CVE-2023-35931

CVE-2023-35931 describes a potential environment variable exposure issue in the shescape library for JavaScript. It is categorized under CWE-526, highlighting cleartext storage of sensitive information in an environment variable.

What is CVE-2023-35931?

CVE-2023-35931, also known as the Shescape vulnerability, allows attackers to gain read-only access to environment variables. The vulnerability affects versions of the shescape library prior to version 1.7.1.

The Impact of CVE-2023-35931

The impact of CVE-2023-35931 is considered low severity, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 3.1. The confidentiality impact is low, and no user interaction is required for exploitation. However, it poses a risk of exposing sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-35931

The vulnerability in shescape library allows for cleartext storage of sensitive information in environment variables, potentially granting attackers unauthorized access. Affected systems include versions prior to 1.7.1 of the shescape library.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-35931 enables attackers to access environment variables in cleartext, exposing potentially sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of the shescape library before 1.7.1 are affected by CVE-2023-35931. Users are advised to update to version 1.7.1 or newer to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain read-only access to environment variables, which may contain sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-35931, users and administrators are advised to take immediate mitigation steps and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately update the shescape library to version 1.7.1 to prevent exploitation of the vulnerability. Review and restrict access to environment variables as needed.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, regularly update dependencies, and conduct security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the shescape library. Regularly check for new releases and apply patches promptly to protect systems from potential exploits.