Node.js Vulnerability in Worker Thread Management - ALPINE-CVE-2025-23083
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2025-23083: With the aid of the diagnostics_channel utility, an event can be hooked into whenever a worker thread is created. Affects nodejs versions < 22.13.1-r0. Fixed in 22.13.1-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Node.js is a popular open-source JavaScript runtime built on Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine. It allows developers to build scalable network applications using an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model. The package 'nodejs' is essential for running JavaScript on the server side and supports various functionalities, including worker threads for concurrent processing. However, recent vulnerabilities have been identified that affect the security of worker thread management, particularly for users utilizing the Permission Model.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as ALPINE-CVE-2025-23083 allows malicious actors to hook into events whenever a worker thread is created using the diagnostics_channel utility. This exposure is not limited to user-created workers but also includes internal workers, which can be accessed and manipulated. The implications of this vulnerability are significant, especially for users operating under the Permission Model in Node.js versions 20, 22, and 23, as it could lead to unauthorized access and exploitation of worker threads.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
22.13.1-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade nodejsTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can avoid using the diagnostics_channel utility for hooking into worker thread events until the package is updated. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation while waiting for a permanent fix.
Conclusion
The ALPINE-CVE-2025-23083 vulnerability poses a significant risk to Node.js users, particularly those utilizing worker threads under the Permission Model. It is essential to update the 'nodejs' package to the latest patched version to safeguard against potential exploitation. Users are encouraged to monitor their applications for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert.
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FAQ
ALPINE-CVE-2025-23083 is a vulnerability in Node.js that allows unauthorized access to worker threads through the diagnostics_channel utility.
The vulnerability affects Node.js versions 20, 22, and 23 when using the Permission Model.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If an immediate update is not possible, avoid using the diagnostics_channel utility to reduce the risk of exploitation.
More information can be found in the official CVE report and through security advisories related to Node.js and Alpine packages.
References
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