Prototype Pollution

Vulnerability

Overview The dot-notes npm package, in all versions, is vulnerable to Prototype Pollution through the create function [1]. Prototype Pollution is a JavaScript vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject properties into an existing object prototype, such as Object.prototype [2]. This can be achieved by manipulating special properties like __proto__, constructor, or prototype [2].

Attack

Vector An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a payload that assigns a malicious value to a property path that includes __proto__ or similar keys. When the create function processes this input, it can modify the base Object.prototype [2]. This attack does not require authentication if the application exposes this function to user-supplied input [2].

Impact

Successful exploitation can lead to severe consequences, including denial of service via JavaScript exceptions, or potentially remote code execution if the attacker can force the application to change its execution path [2]. The pollution of Object.prototype affects all JavaScript objects in the runtime, making the attack widespread.

Mitigation

As of the publication date, no fix has been released for dot-notes; the package remains vulnerable in all versions [1][2]. Users should avoid using the package or ensure the create function is never called with untrusted input. Manual validation of keys to block dangerous properties like __proto__ can serve as a workaround.