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GHSA-2p49-45hj-7mc9

MediumCVSS 6.3 / 10
Published Jan 21, 2026·Last modified Feb 3, 2026
Affected Components(0)

No affected components available

Description

Impact

The resolveSafeChildPath utility function in @backstage/backend-plugin-api, which is used to prevent path traversal attacks, failed to properly validate symlink chains and dangling symlinks. An attacker could bypass the path validation by:

  1. Symlink chains: Creating link1 → link2 → /outside where intermediate symlinks eventually resolve outside the allowed directory
  2. Dangling symlinks: Creating symlinks pointing to non-existent paths outside the base directory, which would later be created during file operations

This function is used by Scaffolder actions and other backend components to ensure file operations stay within designated directories.

Patches

This vulnerability is fixed in @backstage/backend-plugin-api version 0.1.17. Users should upgrade to this version or later.

Workarounds

  • Run Backstage in a containerised environment with limited filesystem access
  • Restrict template creation to trusted users
Risk Scores
Base Score
6.3

The vulnerability can be exploited over the network without needing physical access. It is difficult for an attacker to exploit this vulnerability and may require special conditions. An attacker needs basic access or low-level privileges. No user interaction is needed for the attacker to exploit this vulnerability. The vulnerability can affect other systems as well, not just the initial system. There is a high impact on the confidentiality of the information.

Threat Intelligence
5.8

Exploitation attempts have been detected. Elevated vigilance and prompt remediation are advised.

EPSS
0.43%

The exploit probability is very low. The vulnerability is unlikely to be exploited in the next 30 days.

Exploit
Not available

We did not find any exploit available. Neither in GitHub repositories nor in the Exploit-Database.

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