CVE-2026-116673: systeminformation: Path traversal in Linux networkStats() allows symlink-based file disclosure outside /sys/class/net
systeminformation is a System and OS information library for node.js. Prior to 5.33.14, the Linux networkStats(iface) implementation uses the caller-supplied interface value in an fs.existsSync() check and to build /sys/class/net/<iface> paths, including the operstate path, without verifying that it is a single interface-name segment or that the resolved path remains under /sys/class/net. An attacker who can control iface and create a directory containing symlinked statistics files can use parent-directory components and symlink traversal to make the API return the first line of a file readable by the Node.js process. The package does not expose a network endpoint, and the demonstrated scenario requires local filesystem setup. This issue is fixed in version 5.33.14.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
systeminformationto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 5.33.14
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is realistically exposed to this issue?
Applications using systeminformation on Linux are exposed only when an attacker can influence the iface argument passed to networkStats(). The package does not provide a network endpoint, and the demonstrated attack requires local filesystem setup.
What does an attacker need to exploit the flaw?
The attacker needs control of the interface value and the ability to create a directory with symlinked statistics files. They use parent-directory components and symlink traversal so networkStats() reads a file outside /sys/class/net that is readable by the Node.js process.
What information can be disclosed?
The affected API can return the first line of a file readable by the Node.js process. The issue affects confidentiality; the provided information does not indicate integrity or availability impact.
What should teams do if they cannot update immediately?
Do not pass untrusted values to networkStats(iface). Restrict iface to a single expected interface-name segment and prevent parent-directory components or path separators; also avoid allowing untrusted users to create filesystem paths or symlinks involved in the call.
Which version contains the fix?
Update systeminformation to version 5.33.14 or later. Versions prior to 5.33.14 are affected.