CVE-2023-40028: Arbitrary file read via symlinks in Ghost

Published Aug 15, 2023
·
Updated

Impact

A vulnerability in Ghost allows authenticated users to upload files which are symlinks. This can be exploited to perform an arbitrary file read of any file on the operating system.

Site administrators can check for exploitation of this issue by looking for unknown symlinks within Ghost's content/ folder

Vulnerable versions

This security vulnerability is present in Ghost ≤ v5.59.0.

Patches

v5.59.1 contains a fix for this issue.

For more information

If you have any questions or comments about this advisory: Email us at security@ghost.org

Other sources

Ghost is an open source content management system. Versions prior to 5.59.1 are subject to a vulnerability which allows authenticated users to upload files that are symlinks. This can be exploited to perform an arbitrary file read of any file on the host operating system. Site administrators can check for exploitation of this issue by looking for unknown symlinks within Ghost's content/ folder. Version 5.59.1 contains a fix for this issue. All users are advised to upgrade. There are no known workarounds for this vulnerability.

MITRE

Affected Software

2 affected componentsFixes available
npm/ghost<5.59.1
5.59.1
Ghost Ghost Node.js<5.59.1

Event History

Aug 15, 2023
CVE Published
via MITRE·05:25 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·05:25 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Advisory Published
08:35 PM
Aug 11, 2025
Exploit Published
12:00 AM
Known Exploited
07:00 PM
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the impact of CVE-2023-40028 vulnerability?

The vulnerability allows authenticated users to upload files that are symlinks, leading to an arbitrary file read of any file on the operating system.

2

How can I check if my Ghost site is being exploited?

You can check for unknown symlinks within your Ghost site.

3

What is the severity rating of CVE-2023-40028 vulnerability?

The severity rating of this vulnerability is medium, with a CVSS score of 6.5.

4

How do I fix the CVE-2023-40028 vulnerability?

Update your Ghost installation to version 5.59.1 or higher.

5

What is the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) ID for CVE-2023-40028 vulnerability?

The CWE IDs associated with this vulnerability are CWE-22 and CWE-59.

Contact

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