CVE-2024-39013 identifies a prototype pollution vulnerability in the 2o3t-utility version 0.1.2, specifically within its extend function. Prototype pollution is a type of security flaw that allows an attacker to manipulate the prototype of a base object, thereby injecting or modifying properties that affect all objects inheriting from that prototype. This can lead to unexpected behavior, including arbitrary code execution or Denial of Service (DoS). In this case, the vulnerability allows attackers to inject arbitrary properties remotely without any authentication or user interaction, making it highly exploitable. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-1321, which relates to improper handling of prototype pollution. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 indicates critical severity, with attack vector being network-based (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of prototype pollution vulnerabilities often leads to severe consequences including remote code execution and system crashes. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for organizations to apply mitigations or monitor for updates. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in JavaScript environments where prototype pollution can be leveraged to escalate privileges or bypass security controls.

The impact of CVE-2024-39013 is severe for organizations using the affected 2o3t-utility version. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to take full control of affected systems, steal sensitive data, or disrupt services through Denial of Service attacks. The vulnerability compromises confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously, posing a critical risk to business operations. Since no authentication or user interaction is required, attackers can exploit this remotely and at scale, increasing the likelihood of widespread attacks once exploit code becomes available. Organizations relying on this utility in production environments, especially those exposed to the internet, face significant risk of compromise, data breaches, and operational downtime. The absence of patches further exacerbates the threat, potentially delaying remediation and increasing exposure time. This vulnerability could also be leveraged as a pivot point for lateral movement within networks, amplifying its impact in complex enterprise environments.

To mitigate CVE-2024-39013, organizations should immediately assess their use of 2o3t-utility v0.1.2 and related versions. If possible, discontinue or isolate the vulnerable utility until a patch is released. Employ strict input validation and sanitization to prevent injection of malicious properties into objects. Implement runtime application self-protection (RASP) or JavaScript security tools that detect and block prototype pollution attempts. Monitor application logs and network traffic for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Restrict network access to services using the vulnerable utility, limiting exposure to trusted internal networks. Stay informed about vendor updates or patches and apply them promptly once available. Additionally, conduct code reviews and security testing focused on prototype pollution vectors in custom code that interacts with 2o3t-utility. Employ defense-in-depth strategies such as sandboxing and privilege separation to minimize potential damage from exploitation.