Node ecstatic Directory Listing Vulnerability Scanner

Node ecstatic serves as a simple static file server middleware for Node.js, enabling developers to quickly and efficiently serve files and directories over the web. It is commonly used in both development environments for testing and in production for serving static assets of web applications. The library's flexibility and ease of use have made it a preferred choice for serving static content in a Node.js ecosystem. Ecstatic is particularly useful for single-page applications, prototypes, or any project requiring a quick setup for static file serving. However, it's crucial for developers to configure it securely to avoid unintentional information disclosure.

The directory listing vulnerability in Node ecstatic occurs when the server is configured to allow the listing of directory contents to users. This configuration can lead to information disclosure, as attackers can browse the file system to discover files and directories that may contain sensitive information or reveal the structure of the web application. The issue arises from the server's default configuration, which might not restrict access to directory listings without explicit security measures. As a result, it poses a risk of exposing potentially sensitive information to unauthorized users.

This vulnerability is specifically related to the way Node ecstatic handles HTTP requests for directories. When a request is made to a directory, such as /img/, without proper configuration to disable directory listings, Node ecstatic may respond with an HTML page listing the contents of that directory. The inclusion of a specific HTTP header, 'Range', does not directly influence the vulnerability but demonstrates how different request headers can interact with the server's responses. The matcher checks for the presence of an tag in the response body, confirming that the directory listing is enabled. This behavior highlights the importance of secure server configuration to prevent unintended information disclosure.

If this vulnerability is exploited, an attacker could gain insight into the web application's directory structure, revealing file and directory names that could contain sensitive information or be leveraged for further attacks. This exposure increases the risk of targeted attacks by providing attackers with additional information about the server's file system. In some cases, it could lead to the discovery of unprotected files, backups, or configuration files that were not meant to be publicly accessible, potentially resulting in a data breach or system compromise.

Joining Security for Everyone provides you with state-of-the-art scanning capabilities to detect vulnerabilities like directory listing in Node ecstatic. Our platform offers detailed vulnerability assessments and continuous monitoring to ensure your digital assets are safeguarded against new and emerging threats. By becoming a member, you'll receive actionable insights, expert guidance, and recommendations to address identified vulnerabilities effectively. Protect your web applications from potential security breaches by leveraging our comprehensive cyber threat exposure management service.

References

• https://tripla.dk/2020/03/26/multiple-vulnerabilities-in-nodejs-ecstatic-http-server-http-party/