CVE-2015-8860: Symlink Arbitrary File Overwrite in tar
Summary
CVE-2015-8860: Symlink Arbitrary File Overwrite in tar. Affects tar versions < 2.0.0. Fixed in 2.0.0. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- node-tar · Debian:11
The same CVE-2015-8860 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
The tar package is a popular utility used for archiving files and directories. It allows users to create, list, and extract files from tar archives. The vulnerability in versions prior to 2.0.0 allows for arbitrary file write attacks. When extracting symbolic links, tar fails to verify that the resolved target is within the extraction root directory.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in tar allows an attacker to create symbolic links that point to files outside of the intended extraction directory. This can lead to overwriting arbitrary files on the system, potentially allowing an attacker to modify critical files or gain unauthorized access. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 7.5.22 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install tar@7.5.22Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
2.0.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install tar@2.0.0Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the fixed version of the tar package to mitigate the risk.
Conclusion
The tar package prior to version 2.0.0 is vulnerable to an arbitrary file write attack through symbolic links. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update to the fixed version of the package. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for tar →
FAQ
This vulnerability allows an attacker to overwrite arbitrary files on the system, potentially leading to unauthorized access or modification of critical files.
Versions prior to 2.0.0 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can check the version of tar by running the command 'tar --version' in your terminal.
No, there is no known workaround. It is essential to update to the fixed version of the tar package.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the GitHub Advisory Database: https://github.com/github/advisory-database/blob/main/advisories/github-reviewed/2017/10/GHSA-gfjr-3jmm-4g9v/GHSA-gfjr-3jmm-4g9v.json
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