CVE-2019-0542: xterm vulnerable to remote code execution

xterm Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/01/2019
Yes i
High
8.8

CVE-2019-0542: xterm vulnerable to remote code execution. Affects xterm across 3 version ranges.

< 3.8.1 >= 3.9.0, < 3.9.2 >= 3.10.0, < 3.10.1

Fixed in 3.8.1, 3.9.2 or 3.10.1, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

Also tracked for

The same CVE-2019-0542 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

xterm is an npm package that provides a terminal emulator for the web. It allows users to create interactive command-line interfaces within web applications. This vulnerability affects versions 0 to 3.8.1, 3.9.0 to 3.9.2, and 3.10.0 to 3.10.1 of the xterm package.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in xterm.js arises from mishandling special characters. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely. The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it allows an attacker to gain unauthorized access to the system and potentially perform malicious actions.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 3.8.1 3.8.1
    npm install xterm@3.8.1
  • >= 3.9.0, < 3.9.2 3.9.2
    npm install xterm@3.9.2
  • >= 3.10.0, < 3.10.1 3.10.1
    npm install xterm@3.10.1

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to update to the fixed versions of the xterm package to mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

The xterm package is vulnerable to remote code execution due to mishandling of special characters. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to update to the fixed versions of the package. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for xterm →

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FAQ

xterm is an npm package that provides a terminal emulator for the web. It allows developers to create command-line interfaces within web applications.

The vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized access and malicious actions on the system.

To fix this vulnerability, update the xterm package to version 3.8.1, 3.9.2, or 3.10.1, depending on the currently used version.

No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Updating to the fixed versions is the recommended solution.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for xterm.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 3.8.1 3.8.1
    npm install xterm@3.8.1
  • >= 3.9.0, < 3.9.2 3.9.2
    npm install xterm@3.9.2
  • >= 3.10.0, < 3.10.1 3.10.1
    npm install xterm@3.10.1

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

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