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2024-12-09
A critical vulnerability, known as ReDoS (Regular Expression Denial of Service), has been identified in the `path-to-regexp` library, specifically affecting versions 0.1.x. This vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to exploit the library’s regular expression engine to consume excessive system resources, leading to denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability arises from a specific regular expression pattern that can trigger catastrophic backtracking. When an attacker crafts a malicious input string, the regular expression engine may enter an infinite loop, consuming significant CPU and memory resources. This can ultimately render the affected application unresponsive or crash.
Affected Versions
`path-to-regexp` versions 0.1.x
Mitigation Strategies
To protect your applications from this vulnerability, it is strongly recommended to:
1. Upgrade to a Patched Version:
– Update to `path-to-regexp` version 0.1.12 or later. This version includes a fix for the ReDoS vulnerability.
2. Implement Workarounds:
– Avoid Two-Parameter Path Segments: Refrain from using two parameters within a single path segment when the separator is not a dot (`.`). For example, avoid patterns like `/path/:param1-:param2`.
– Define Custom Regular Expressions: If you need to use multiple parameters within a path segment, define custom regular expressions for each parameter. Ensure that these regular expressions are designed to prevent backtracking and limit the potential for ReDoS attacks.
What Undercode Says:
The `path-to-regexp` vulnerability highlights the importance of careful regular expression construction and the potential risks associated with poorly designed patterns. ReDoS attacks can have severe consequences, including system unresponsiveness and service outages.
To mitigate such risks, it is crucial to:
– Stay Updated: Regularly update libraries and frameworks to address known vulnerabilities.
– Validate Input: Implement robust input validation and sanitization techniques to prevent malicious input from reaching vulnerable components.
– Test Thoroughly: Conduct thorough security testing, including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning, to identify and address potential weaknesses.
– Follow Best Practices: Adhere to secure coding practices, such as avoiding complex regular expressions and using well-established libraries with a strong security track record.
By taking these steps, developers can significantly reduce the risk of ReDoS attacks and protect their applications from potential exploitation.
References:
Reported By: Github.com
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Wikipedia: https://www.wikipedia.org
Undercode AI: https://ai.undercodetesting.com
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