CVE-2021-43788 Path traversal in translator module of NobeBB

Medium 5.0 Published Updated

Attackers can read JSON files outside the intended directory in NodeBB, requiring an upgrade to the latest version.

Exploited in the wild
Not known
Login needed
Any signed-in user
Attackable
Over the internet
Victim action needed
Not needed
Fix
Available

What is CVE-2021-43788?

CVE-2021-43788 is a medium-severity path traversal vulnerability in NodeBB, published on 29 Nov 2021. Any signed-in user can exploit it over the network, with no action from the victim.

Official description

Nodebb is an open source Node.js based forum software. Prior to v1.18.5, a path traversal vulnerability was present that allowed users to access JSON files outside of the expected `languages/` directory. The vulnerability has been patched as of v1.18.5. Users are advised to upgrade as soon as possible.

Weakness: CWE-22

Which versions are affected by CVE-2021-43788?

2 open source packages ship an affected version, including nodebb. It affects 1 product.

PackageAffectedFixed in
nodebb npmFrom 1.0.41.18.5
nodebb npmFrom 1.0.41.18.5

Products include Nodebb Nodebb.

How do I fix CVE-2021-43788?

Upgrade nodebb to 1.18.5 or later.

Upgrade, and resolve every user-supplied path against an allowed base folder before opening it. More about Path traversal.

Is CVE-2021-43788 being exploited?

There is no known exploitation of CVE-2021-43788 in the wild and no public exploit code.

Sources

Also known as GHSA-pfj7-2qfw-vwgm.

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