JavaScript Environment Configuration Exposure Scanner

JavaScript Environment Configuration files are used in web applications to manage environment-specific settings such as API endpoints, authentication tokens, and logging configurations. These files are essential for defining development, production, and testing environments. Developers use these configuration files to simplify application deployment across different stages of the software development lifecycle. While these files streamline application management, exposing them publicly can lead to security vulnerabilities. Attackers often target exposed environment configuration files to gain insight into application structures. Ensuring these files are properly secured is critical for preventing unauthorized access.

Configuration exposure occurs when sensitive configuration files are publicly accessible, potentially revealing security keys, API tokens, or internal system details. This scanner detects publicly available JavaScript environment configuration files that may contain sensitive information. Attackers can exploit these exposed files to gather intelligence on system architecture, credentials, and other critical settings. Detecting such exposures helps organizations mitigate security risks before they are exploited. Security teams can use this scanner to identify misconfigurations and enforce best practices for secure application deployment. Reducing public exposure of configuration files strengthens overall security posture.

The scanner works by sending HTTP GET requests to commonly used JavaScript environment configuration file paths such as "/env.js", "/env.development.js", "/env.production.js", "/env.test.js", "/env.dev.js", and "/env.prod.js". It then checks if the response contains a status code of 200 and verifies that the content type is "application/javascript". Additionally, it scans the file contents for keywords such as "module.exports", "NODE_ENV", "TOKEN", "KEY", and "PASSWORD". If these keywords are found, it confirms the presence of an exposed JavaScript configuration file. The scanner excludes generic script files related to libraries like Bootstrap and jQuery to reduce false positives.

Exposed configuration files can lead to severe security risks, including unauthorized access to internal systems, API abuse, and credential theft. Attackers can leverage exposed tokens and keys to escalate their access and perform unauthorized actions within applications. Sensitive data leakage may result in compliance violations and reputational damage for organizations. Additionally, an attacker can modify configuration settings to exploit application behavior. Regular audits and restrictions on public access to configuration files can mitigate the risk of exploitation.