qs is a popular npm package designed for parsing and stringifying URL query strings with advanced features like handling nested objects and arrays. Versions 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 are closely related, with the latter representing a minor update. Both versions share the same core functionality: parsing complex querystrings into JavaScript objects and converting JavaScript objects back into querystrings. They both support a depth limit, preventing excessive nesting that could lead to performance issues or security vulnerabilities. They also don't have dependencies and share the same dev dependencies.
The key difference lies in the release date, suggesting that version 2.3.2 likely includes minor bug fixes, performance improvements, or very small feature enhancements compared to the previous 2.3.1 version. Unfortunately, without specific release notes or commit logs, we can't pinpoint the exact changes.
For developers considering using qs, both v2.3.1 and v2.3.2 provide a robust solution for managing querystrings. The choice between them depends on your risk tolerance and need for the most up-to-date version. If you prioritize stability and have no known issues with v2.3.1, sticking with it is a reasonable option. However, upgrading to v2.3.2 is generally recommended to benefit from any potential bug fixes and improvements, assuming no breaking changes were introduced (unlikely given the minor version bump). Always test thoroughly after updating any dependency.
All the vulnerabilities related to the version 2.3.2 of the package
Prototype Pollution Protection Bypass in qs
Affected version of qs are vulnerable to Prototype Pollution because it is possible to bypass the protection. The qs.parse function fails to properly prevent an object's prototype to be altered when parsing arbitrary input. Input containing [ or ] may bypass the prototype pollution protection and alter the Object prototype. This allows attackers to override properties that will exist in all objects, which may lead to Denial of Service or Remote Code Execution in specific circumstances.
Upgrade to 6.0.4, 6.1.2, 6.2.3, 6.3.2 or later.
qs vulnerable to Prototype Pollution
qs before 6.10.3 allows attackers to cause a Node process hang because an __ proto__ key can be used. In many typical web framework use cases, an unauthenticated remote attacker can place the attack payload in the query string of the URL that is used to visit the application, such as a[__proto__]=b&a[__proto__]&a[length]=100000000. The fix was backported to qs 6.9.7, 6.8.3, 6.7.3, 6.6.1, 6.5.3, 6.4.1, 6.3.3, and 6.2.4.
