# CVE-2023-32003: Node.js 20: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')

CVE-2023-32003 is fixed in Node.js 20 on 1 platform by Node.js 20 20.5.1 (version 20.5.1), released August 9, 2023. It is not reported as exploited. Patch Radar priority: Routine.

- Web page: https://patchblox.com/security/cve/CVE-2023-32003
- Priority: Routine
- CVSS: 5.3
- EPSS: 0.0117
- CISA KEV: not listed
- Exploited (vendor report): no
- Publicly disclosed: no
- Published: Aug 15, 2023
- Weakness: CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')
- Vendor advisory: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-32003

## Description

`fs.mkdtemp()` and `fs.mkdtempSync()` can be used to bypass the permission model check using a path traversal attack. This flaw arises from a missing check in the fs.mkdtemp() API and the impact is a malicious actor could create an arbitrary directory.  This vulnerability affects all users using the experimental permission model in Node.js 20.  Please note that at the time this CVE was issued, the permission model is an experimental feature of Node.js.

## Where it's fixed

| Platform | Product | Fixed in | Fix | Released |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows apps | Node.js 20 | 20.5.1 | [Node.js 20 20.5.1](https://patchblox.com/security/data/fix/windows-app/openjs.nodejs.20-20.5.1.md) | Aug 9, 2023 |

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Data as of 2026-11-07T18:46:35Z UTC. Source: Patchblox Patch Radar (https://patchblox.com/security/patch-radar). Patchblox finds out-of-date software on Windows, macOS and Linux and updates it through release rings: https://patchblox.com/demo

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