CVE-2026-24046
Description
A flaw was found in Backstage. A symlink-based path traversal issue can be exploited in multiple Scaffolder actions and archive extraction utilities during template execution via malicious symlinks. An attacker with access to create and execute Scaffolder templates can read sensitive files, delete arbitrary files or write files outside the intended workspace, resulting in unauthorized information disclosure or system compromise.
Statement
To exploit this issue, an attacker needs to have access to create and execute Scaffolder actions, specifically the debug:log, fs:delete actions and archive extractions, limiting the exposure of this flaw. Additionally, file systems operations are constrained by the permissions of the process, limiting the impact to files that can be accessed by Backstage. Due to these reasons, this vulnerability has been rated with an important severity.
Mitigation
To mitigate this issue, consider implementing strict access controls for Backstage Scaffolder templates. Restrict the ability to create and execute Scaffolder templates to trusted users only, utilizing the Backstage permissions framework. Additionally, audit existing templates for any symlink usage and consider running Backstage within a containerized environment with a highly restricted filesystem to limit potential impact.
Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) Score Details
Info alert:Important note
CVSS scores for open source components depend on vendor-specific factors (e.g. version or build chain). Therefore, Red Hat's score and impact rating can be different from NVD and other vendors. Red Hat remains the authoritative CVE Naming Authority (CNA) source for its products and services (see Red Hat classifications).
CVSS v3 Score Breakdown
| Red Hat | NVD | cve.org | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Score | 9.1 | N/A | 9.1 |
| Attack Vector | Network | N/A | Network |
| Attack Complexity | Low | N/A | Low |
| Privileges Required | Low | N/A | Low |
| User Interaction | None | N/A | None |
| Scope | Changed | N/A | Changed |
| Confidentiality | High | N/A | High |
| Integrity Impact | Low | N/A | Low |
| Availability Impact | Low | N/A | Low |
Vector
Red Hat: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:L/A:L
cve.org: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:L/A:L
Understanding the Weakness (CWE)
Confidentiality,Integrity,Access Control
Technical Impact: Read Files or Directories; Modify Files or Directories; Bypass Protection Mechanism
An attacker may be able to traverse the file system to unintended locations and read or overwrite the contents of unexpected files. If the files are used for a security mechanism then an attacker may be able to bypass the mechanism.
Other
Technical Impact: Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands
Windows simple shortcuts, sometimes referred to as soft links, can be exploited remotely since a ".LNK" file can be uploaded like a normal file. This can enable remote execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure what something means? Check out our Security Glossary.
Want to get errata notifications? Sign up here.
