CVE-2015-8859 in send Package
Summary
by MITRE
The send package before 0.11.1 for Node.js allows attackers to obtain the root path via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8859 affects the send package version 0.11.1 and earlier in Node.js environments, representing a significant security flaw that enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the root path through unspecified vectors. This vulnerability falls under the category of information disclosure, where sensitive system paths become accessible to malicious actors. The send package is commonly used in Node.js applications for serving static files and handling HTTP responses, making it a critical component in web application infrastructure. When an attacker can manipulate the path resolution mechanism within this package, they gain access to the underlying file system structure, potentially exposing sensitive directories and files that should remain protected.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path traversal handling within the send package's file serving functionality. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious requests that manipulate the path resolution logic, allowing them to traverse the file system hierarchy and access the root directory or other sensitive locations. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description indicate that the vulnerability can be triggered through various attack methods, including but not limited to parameter manipulation, header injection, or crafted file paths. This broad attack surface makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through multiple entry points. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal. This classification emphasizes the fundamental flaw in how the application handles file paths and validates user input before accessing system resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8859 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other critical system components stored in the root directory or adjacent paths. This access can enable further exploitation, including privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and system infiltration. The vulnerability particularly affects Node.js applications that rely on the send package for serving static content, which includes a wide range of web applications, content management systems, and web frameworks. Organizations using affected versions of the send package are at risk of unauthorized access to their file systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data breaches. The attack can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it especially dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8859 primarily involve upgrading to version 0.11.1 or later of the send package, which contains the necessary patches to address the path traversal vulnerability. System administrators should immediately update their Node.js applications to ensure that all dependencies are current with security patches. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures can provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious path traversal attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1083 File and Directory Discovery, indicating that attackers can leverage such vulnerabilities to discover system files and potentially escalate privileges. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the application stack. Network segmentation and least privilege access controls can also limit the potential damage if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper logging and monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and investigate any suspicious file system access patterns.