CVE-2026-21636

Published Jan 20, 2026
·
Updated

A flaw in Node.js's permission model allows Unix Domain Socket (UDS) connections to bypass network restrictions when `--permission` is enabled. Even without `--allow-net`, attacker-controlled inputs (such as URLs or socketPath options) can connect to arbitrary local sockets via net, tls, or undici/fetch. This breaks the intended security boundary of the permission model and enables access to privileged local services, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data exposure, or local code execution. * The issue affects users of the Node.js permission model on version v25. In the moment of this vulnerability, network permissions (`--allow-net`) are still in the experimental phase.

Affected Software

2 affected components
npm/node
Nodejs Node.js>=25.0.0<25.3.0

Event History

Jan 20, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·08:41 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·08:41 PM
DescriptionSeverity
Data Sourced
via NVD·09:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-21636?

CVE-2026-21636 is considered a high severity vulnerability due to its potential to enable unauthorized access to local sockets.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-21636?

To mitigate CVE-2026-21636, avoid using the `--permission` flag and validate all inputs to ensure they do not include unauthorized socket paths.

3

Who is affected by CVE-2026-21636?

CVE-2026-21636 affects applications using Node.js versions where the permission model allows Unix Domain Socket connections to bypass network restrictions.

4

What impact does CVE-2026-21636 have on system security?

The impact of CVE-2026-21636 could lead to unauthorized data access or manipulation by allowing an attacker to connect to sensitive local sockets.

5

Is CVE-2026-21636 present in all Node.js versions?

CVE-2026-21636 is not present in all Node.js versions; it specifically affects versions where the flawed permission model is implemented.

Contact

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