Sandbreak: Critical Code Execution Bug Found In Popular Vm2 Sandbox

By Editor Last updated Mrz 4, 2025

The vm2 JavaScript sandbox library has recently been found to contain a critical remote code execution vulnerability, referred to as Sandbreak. This flaw, assigned the identifier CVE-2022-36067, allows for the execution of commands and unauthorized access to Node.js global objects outside of the sandbox environment. The vm2 maintainers addressed this vulnerability in version 3.9.11 of the library, released on August 28, 2022. The bug resulted from an insecure implementation of a Node.js feature by the vm2 maintainers. To mitigate the potential serious consequences, it is strongly recommended for users to update to the patched version. Researchers at Oxeyes have discovered a method to bypass the mitigation mechanism and execute commands using the PrepareStackTrace method. As a response, the vm2 library authors have implemented a patch to minimize the vulnerability. This article also discusses other noteworthy cybersecurity news, including malware exploitation, free website security checks, and a dedicated news channel for hackers and security professionals named Cyber Security News.

Quickjump

Key Takeaways

Sandbreak is a critical remote code execution bug found in the widely used vm2 JavaScript sandbox.
The vulnerability was assigned CVE ID CVE-2022-36067 and has a CVSS score of 10, indicating its severity.
The flaw in vm2 sandbox library allows for remote execution of commands and accessing Node.js global objects outside the sandbox.
The vulnerability was patched with the release of version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library on August 28, 2022, and it is strongly recommended to install this version to prevent any potential consequences.

Flaw Profile

The flaw profile of the Sandbreak vulnerability (CVE-2022-36067) includes its CVE ID, description as a remote execution vulnerability in the vm2 sandbox library, CVSS score of 10, critical severity, and patched status with the release of version 3.9.11 on August 28, 2022. This critical flaw allowed for remote code execution in the vm2 sandbox library, which is widely used for running untrusted code within a virtual machine. The vm2 maintainers inadvertently implemented a Node.js feature insecurely, resulting in the vulnerability. By exploiting this flaw, attackers could execute commands and access Node.js global objects outside the sandbox. To prevent exploitation, it is crucial to install the patched version 3.9.11. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences for applications utilizing the vm2 library.

Technical Analysis

Version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library was released on August 28, 2022, as a response to a remote execution vulnerability. The Sandbreak vulnerability exploited an error in the VM2 library, allowing attackers to generate a CallSite object and customize the call stack. This customization enabled the execution of commands and access to Node.js global objects outside the sandbox. The exploitation techniques used in this vulnerability involved manipulating the PrepareStackTrace method to execute commands. This critical vulnerability had a significant impact on Node.js applications, as it allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. To mitigate the risk, it is highly recommended that users update to version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library to prevent potential exploitation of the Sandbreak vulnerability.

Recommendation

To mitigate the security risk posed by the vulnerability, it is strongly advised that users promptly update their vm2 library to the latest patched version. The impact assessment of the Sandbreak vulnerability reveals that it allows for remote code execution, posing a critical risk to affected systems. By exploiting the flaw in the vm2 sandbox library, attackers can execute commands and access Node.js global objects outside the sandbox environment. This could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential system compromise. To address this issue, the vm2 maintainers released version 3.9.11 on August 28, 2022, which includes the necessary patch to fix the vulnerability. Users should follow a patch deployment process that involves installing the latest version of the vm2 library to ensure protection against potential attacks.

Cyber Attack

Researchers have discovered a vulnerability in the widely used JavaScript sandbox library, which allows for remote code execution and poses a significant cybersecurity risk. This cyber attack has the potential to impact affected applications and lead to serious consequences. To prevent similar remote code execution vulnerabilities in sandbox libraries, it is crucial to take appropriate measures. Here are some discussion ideas on this subtopic:

Impact on affected applications and potential consequences:
- The vulnerability in the vm2 sandbox library enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands and access Node.js global objects outside the sandbox.
- This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, unauthorized code execution, and potential compromise of the entire system.
- The consequences can include data breaches, system crashes, unauthorized modification of data, and even complete control of the affected system.
Measures to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities:
- Regular security audits and code reviews can help identify potential vulnerabilities in sandbox libraries.
- Implementing secure coding practices, such as input validation and sanitization, can help prevent code injection attacks.
- Keeping sandbox libraries up to date with the latest patches and security fixes is crucial to mitigate the risk of known vulnerabilities.
- Monitoring and analyzing system logs for suspicious activities can help detect and respond to potential attacks in a timely manner.
- Employing runtime application self-protection (RASP) technologies can provide an additional layer of defense against remote code execution vulnerabilities.

Website Security Check

The topic of website security check is addressed by Cyber Security News through its offering of a free service to assess the security of websites. This service is crucial for businesses and individuals to ensure the protection of their online platforms. Regular website security checks are of utmost importance as they help identify and address common vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. Cyber Security News emphasizes the significance of staying vigilant and proactive in maintaining website security. Through their free service, they assist users in identifying potential weaknesses in their websites, such as outdated software, insecure configurations, and unpatched vulnerabilities. By conducting regular security checks, website owners can mitigate the risks of cyber attacks and protect their sensitive information and user data.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Sandbreak vulnerability impact applications running on the vm2 JavaScript sandbox?

The sandbreak vulnerability in the vm2 JavaScript sandbox has significant security implications for applications. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to patch and secure applications by updating to version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library.

Are there any known instances of the Sandbreak vulnerability being exploited in the wild?

There are no known instances of the Sandbreak vulnerability being exploited in the wild. However, the exploitation of critical code execution vulnerabilities can lead to severe consequences, including unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. To mitigate and prevent such vulnerabilities in sandbox environments, best practices include promptly patching and updating software, implementing firewall and intrusion detection systems, practicing secure coding practices, and conducting regular security audits and testing.

Can the Sandbreak vulnerability be mitigated without updating to version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library?

Mitigating the Sandbreak vulnerability without updating to version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library is not recommended. The Sandbreak vulnerability has a critical impact on vm2 applications, and installing version 3.9.11 is strongly advised to address the vulnerability effectively.

Are there any alternative JavaScript sandbox libraries that can be used as a replacement for vm2?

When considering alternative JavaScript sandbox libraries compared to vm2, developers should be aware of limitations such as potential differences in functionality, community support, and compatibility with existing code. To ensure the security of their applications when using JavaScript sandbox libraries, developers should follow best practices such as regularly updating the library, conducting thorough code reviews, implementing input validation, and employing secure coding practices to prevent common vulnerabilities.

How can users determine if their website has been affected by the Sandbreak vulnerability?

Potential consequences of the Sandbreak vulnerability for websites include remote code execution and unauthorized access to Node.js global objects. Users can protect their websites by installing the patched version 3.9.11 of the vm2 library.