CVE-2016-10598

Vulnerability

The npm package arrayfire-js downloads its binary resources over an unencrypted HTTP connection [1][2]. This design flaw makes the package vulnerable to man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks during the download of the required binaries. The vulnerability affects all versions of arrayfire-js and is present whenever a user installs or updates the package [1][2].

Exploitation

An attacker must be in a privileged network position, such as on the same local network, between the user and the remote server (e.g., compromised router, rogue ISP), or able to intercept HTTP traffic [1][2]. The attacker can then intercept the HTTP response when arrayfire-js downloads its binary, replace the legitimate binary with a malicious one, and deliver that to the user [1][2]. No authentication or user interaction beyond normal package installation is required.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system running arrayfire-js [1][2]. The attacker gains the same privileges as the Node.js process, which could lead to full system compromise depending on the process context. This is a high-severity issue due to the potential for remote code execution.

Mitigation

No official patch is currently available for this vulnerability [2]. The recommended mitigation is to avoid using the arrayfire-js package entirely and switch to an alternative package if available [2]. If the package must be used, risk can be reduced by ensuring the package is only installed on private, trusted networks where attackers cannot easily intercept HTTP traffic [2]. The vulnerability is listed in the GitHub Advisory Database but not in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.