CVE-2026-41693: i18next-fs-backend: Path traversal via unsanitised lng/ns allows arbitrary file read/overwrite
i18next-fs-backend is a backend layer for i18next using in Node.js and for Deno to load translations from the filesystem. Prior to version 2.6.4, i18next-fs-backend substitutes the lng and ns options directly into the configured loadPath / addPath templates and then read / write the resulting file from disk. The interpolation is unencoded and unvalidated, so a crafted lng or ns value — containing .., a path separator, a control character, a prototype key, or simply an unexpectedly long string — allows an attacker who can influence either value to read or overwrite files outside the intended locale directory. When lng / ns are derived from untrusted input (request-scoped i18next instances behind an HTTP layer such as i18next-http-middleware, or any framework that lets the end user pick the language via query string, cookie, or header), a single request such as ?lng=../../../../etc/passwd causes the backend to attempt to read that path. This issue has been patched in version 2.6.4.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
i18next-fs-backendto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 2.6.4 - Compensating control
If you create request-scoped i18next instances behind an HTTP layer (e.g., i18next-http-middleware) or allow users to set lng/ns via query string, cookie, or header, ensure lng and ns are validated/sanitized and restricted to an allowlist of expected locale names before passing them to i18next-fs-backend.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-41693?
CVE-2026-41693 has a high severity due to its potential for arbitrary file read and overwrite.
How do I fix CVE-2026-41693?
To fix CVE-2026-41693, upgrade i18next-fs-backend to version 2.6.4 or later.
What versions are affected by CVE-2026-41693?
CVE-2026-41693 affects all versions of i18next-fs-backend prior to version 2.6.4.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-41693?
CVE-2026-41693 is a path traversal vulnerability that allows for unsanitized file access.
Who is impacted by CVE-2026-41693?
Developers using i18next-fs-backend versions below 2.6.4 are impacted by CVE-2026-41693.