CVE-2022-41713 is a prototype pollution vulnerability identified in version 1.1.0 of the deep-object-diff JavaScript library. This vulnerability arises because the library does not properly validate incoming JSON keys, allowing an attacker to manipulate the '__proto__' property of JavaScript objects. Prototype pollution occurs when an attacker is able to modify the prototype of a base object, which can lead to unexpected behavior in applications that rely on these objects. Specifically, by injecting or modifying the '__proto__' property, an attacker can add or alter properties on all objects inheriting from that prototype, potentially leading to integrity issues within the application. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.3, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity, requires no privileges or user interaction, and impacts the integrity of the application without affecting confidentiality or availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a risk especially in environments where deep-object-diff is used to compare or manipulate JSON objects from untrusted sources. Prototype pollution can lead to a range of security issues including bypassing security controls, altering application logic, or causing denial of service in some cases, depending on how the polluted objects are used downstream in the application. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-1321, which relates to improper handling of prototype pollution in JavaScript applications. No official patches or updates are linked, so mitigation currently relies on applying secure coding practices or upgrading to a fixed version if available.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends largely on the extent to which deep-object-diff version 1.1.0 is used within their software stacks, particularly in web applications or services processing untrusted JSON input. If exploited, attackers could manipulate application logic by altering object properties globally, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or bypassing security checks. This could affect data integrity and trustworthiness of application behavior, which is critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government services prevalent in Europe. While confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted, the integrity compromise could facilitate further attacks or data corruption. Given the medium severity and no requirement for authentication or user interaction, automated exploitation in vulnerable environments is feasible. European organizations relying on JavaScript-based applications or microservices that incorporate this library should be cautious, as prototype pollution can be a stepping stone for more complex attacks or privilege escalation within the application context. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future exploitation, especially as threat actors often target widely used open-source components.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should first identify all instances where deep-object-diff version 1.1.0 is used within their software environments. If possible, upgrade to a patched or newer version of the library that addresses the prototype pollution issue. If no official patch is available, implement input validation and sanitization to reject or neutralize JSON keys containing '__proto__' or other prototype-related properties before they reach the deep-object-diff processing logic. Employ security-focused code reviews and static analysis tools to detect unsafe object property manipulations. Additionally, consider isolating or sandboxing components that process untrusted JSON data to limit the scope of potential pollution. Monitoring application behavior for anomalies related to object property changes can also help detect exploitation attempts. Finally, maintain an up-to-date inventory of third-party dependencies and subscribe to vulnerability advisories to promptly respond to emerging patches or exploits.