CVE-2026-23535: wlc Path Traversal Vulnerability in Weblate Allows Arbitrary File Write
Summary
CVE-2026-23535: Weblate wlc path traversal vulnerability: Unsanitized API slugs in download command. Affects wlc versions < 1.17.2. Fixed in 1.17.2. How to fix ↓
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Background
Weblate is an open-source web-based translation tool that facilitates collaborative translation of software and content. It supports various translation formats and integrates with version control systems. The wlc package, part of Weblate, is used for handling translation downloads. This package is susceptible to a path traversal vulnerability that can be exploited when interacting with untrusted servers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from unsanitized API slugs in the download command of the wlc package. When a user executes a multi-translation download command, it can be manipulated by a crafted server to write files to arbitrary locations on the user's system. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files or system compromise, making it a significant security risk.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.1.0 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "wlc==3.1.0"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.17.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "wlc==1.17.2"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, avoid using the 'wlc download' command with untrusted servers to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
The wlc path traversal vulnerability (CVE-2026-23535) poses a significant risk to users of the Weblate translation tool. It is crucial to update to the latest version of the wlc package to mitigate this risk. Additionally, users should avoid interacting with untrusted servers until they have updated their software.
See every vulnerability recorded for wlc →
FAQ
The vulnerability is a path traversal issue that allows arbitrary file writing due to unsanitized input in the wlc package.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized file access, data loss, or system compromise.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.0, indicating a high severity level.
Yes, Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the Pipfile.lock.
References
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