CVE-2026-32731: ApostropheCMS Arbitrary File Write Vulnerability in @apostrophecms/import-export
Summary
CVE-2026-32731: ApostropheCMS has Arbitrary File Write (Zip Slip / Path Traversal) in Import-Export Gzip Extraction. Affects @apostrophecms/import-export versions < 3.5.3. Fixed in 3.5.3. How to fix ↓
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Background
ApostropheCMS is a powerful open-source content management system (CMS) designed for building websites and applications. It allows users to manage content easily through a user-friendly interface. The @apostrophecms/import-export package is responsible for handling the import and export of content in various formats, including Gzip. This package has a critical vulnerability that allows arbitrary file writes due to improper path handling during Gzip extraction.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the extract function in gzip.js, which constructs file-write paths using fs.createWriteStream(path.join(exportPath, header.name)). The path.join() method does not sanitize traversal segments, allowing an attacker to upload a crafted .tar.gz file that can write files outside the intended extraction directory. This leads to potential unauthorized access to sensitive files, defacement of the website, and even remote code execution if critical files are overwritten.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.7.1 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install @apostrophecms/import-export@3.7.1Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
3.5.3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install @apostrophecms/import-export@3.5.3Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, restrict the permissions of users who have access to the import functionality. Ensure that only trusted users with the necessary permissions can upload files through the CMS until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The CVE-2026-32731 vulnerability in the @apostrophecms/import-export package poses a significant risk to users of ApostropheCMS. It allows unauthorized file writes, which can lead to severe consequences. It is crucial to update to the patched version 3.5.3 to mitigate this risk and ensure the security of your application.
See every vulnerability recorded for @apostrophecms/import-export →
FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 9.9, indicating a critical level of risk.
Any user with Global Content Modify permissions in ApostropheCMS is affected, which typically includes content editors and site managers.
The impacts include arbitrary file write, website defacement, malicious asset injection, persistent backdoor creation, and denial of service.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. You can check your application using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner without any signup.
Yes, you can restrict the permissions of users who can upload files through the CMS until the package is updated.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for @apostrophecms/import-export.
