CVE-2018-16485: Path Traversal vulnerability in m-server
Summary
CVE-2018-16485: m-server Vulnerable to Directory Traversal. Affects m-server versions < 1.4.1. Fixed in 1.4.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
m-server is an npm package that provides server functionality for web applications. It allows developers to create and manage servers for their applications. The package is vulnerable to a Path Traversal vulnerability in versions prior to 1.4.1. This vulnerability allows a malicious user to access unauthorized content of any file in the directory tree by appending slashes to the URL request.
Vulnerability Detail
The Path Traversal vulnerability in m-server allows an attacker to bypass access controls and retrieve sensitive information from the server. By manipulating the URL request, an attacker can traverse the directory tree and access files that should be restricted. For example, an attacker could access the /etc/passwd file, which contains user account information. This vulnerability poses a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the server and its data.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 1.4.2 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install m-server@1.4.2Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.4.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install m-server@1.4.1Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading to the latest version is not immediately possible, a temporary workaround is to implement server-side input validation and sanitization. This can help prevent malicious input from being processed and mitigate the risk of a successful Path Traversal attack. Developers should carefully validate and sanitize user input before using it to construct file paths or perform file operations.
Conclusion
The Path Traversal vulnerability in m-server can allow unauthorized access to sensitive files on the server. It is crucial to upgrade to m-server version 1.4.1 or later to fix this vulnerability. In the meantime, implementing server-side input validation and sanitization can provide temporary mitigation. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for m-server →
FAQ
A Path Traversal vulnerability, also known as Directory Traversal, occurs when an attacker can navigate outside of the intended directory structure and access files or directories that should be restricted.
This vulnerability allows an attacker to access unauthorized content of any file in the directory tree. It can lead to the exposure of sensitive information and compromise the security of the server and its data.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Simply provide your package-lock.json file, and Vulert will analyze it for any known vulnerabilities, including this Path Traversal vulnerability in m-server.
Yes, upgrading to m-server version 1.4.1 or later fixes this vulnerability. It is recommended to update your package.json file and install the latest version of m-server using your package manager.
Implementing server-side input validation and sanitization can help mitigate the risk of a successful Path Traversal attack. By carefully validating and sanitizing user input, you can prevent malicious input from being processed and limit the impact of this vulnerability.
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