CVE-2024-38999 is a critical security vulnerability identified in the widely used JavaScript module loader library, jrburke requirejs version 2.3.6. The vulnerability arises from a prototype pollution flaw in the s.contexts._.configure function. Prototype pollution occurs when an attacker is able to inject or modify properties on JavaScript object prototypes, which can lead to unexpected behavior in applications. In this case, the attacker can inject arbitrary properties into the prototype chain, which may allow them to execute arbitrary code or cause a Denial of Service (DoS) by disrupting normal application logic. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring any privileges or user interaction, making it highly dangerous. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 10.0, reflecting its critical severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability with scope change. Although no patches have been released yet, this vulnerability demands urgent attention due to the widespread use of requirejs in web applications and front-end development. The CWE classification is CWE-1321, which relates to improper control of object prototype attributes. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, with no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting.

The impact of CVE-2024-38999 is severe for organizations worldwide that utilize requirejs 2.3.6 in their web applications or services. Exploitation can lead to complete compromise of affected applications, including execution of arbitrary code, which may allow attackers to take control of servers or client environments. This can result in data breaches, unauthorized access, and disruption of services through Denial of Service attacks. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously, making it a critical risk. Given requirejs's popularity in JavaScript module loading, many web applications, especially those relying on legacy or unpatched versions, are exposed. The lack of required authentication and user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the likelihood of attacks once exploit code becomes available. Organizations with high-value web assets, sensitive data, or critical infrastructure relying on requirejs are at particular risk, potentially leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory consequences.

Until an official patch is released, organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Audit and restrict inputs to the s.contexts._.configure function to prevent untrusted data from influencing prototype properties. 2) Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or JavaScript security tools that can detect and block prototype pollution attempts. 3) Use Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts. 4) Isolate or sandbox components using requirejs to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. 5) Monitor application logs and network traffic for anomalous behavior indicative of prototype pollution or code injection attempts. 6) Plan and prioritize upgrading to patched versions of requirejs once available. 7) Conduct thorough code reviews and penetration testing focused on prototype pollution vectors. 8) Educate developers about secure coding practices related to prototype manipulation in JavaScript. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice and address the specific exploitation mechanism of this vulnerability.