CVE-2026-15527 in better-icons
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2026
A vulnerability has been found in better-auth better-icons up to 1.0.5. This vulnerability affects unknown code of the component scan_project_icons/sync_icon. Such manipulation of the argument icons_file leads to path traversal. An attack has to be approached locally. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The project was informed of the problem early through an issue report but has not responded yet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2026
This vulnerability resides within the better-auth better-icons library version 1.0.5 and specifically impacts the scan_project_icons/sync_icon component functionality. The flaw manifests through improper input validation when processing the icons_file argument, creating a path traversal condition that allows unauthorized access to arbitrary file system locations. The vulnerability requires local execution privileges to exploit, making it a local privilege escalation or lateral movement vector within compromised systems. Security researchers have documented this issue in public repositories, indicating active disclosure and potential for exploitation by malicious actors who may leverage the vulnerability for unauthorized data access or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-23 Path Traversal and CWE-77 Path Traversal attacks, where insufficient validation of user-supplied input enables attackers to manipulate file paths and gain access to restricted directories. The attack vector operates through local manipulation of the icons_file parameter, which likely accepts file system paths without proper sanitization or validation checks. This creates opportunities for attackers to traverse directory structures beyond intended boundaries, potentially accessing sensitive configuration files, system binaries, or user data stored in adjacent directories.
Operational impact assessment reveals significant security implications for systems utilizing this library component, particularly in environments where local access is possible or where privilege escalation attacks are feasible. The vulnerability's local execution requirement means it may be exploited during routine administrative tasks or through compromised local accounts, potentially leading to unauthorized system reconnaissance or data exfiltration. Organizations deploying this library should consider the potential for privilege escalation when local accounts are compromised, as attackers could leverage this path traversal flaw to access additional system resources beyond their initial access level.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate library version updates to address the identified path traversal vulnerability, while implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the affected component. Organizations should also consider restricting local system access privileges where possible, implementing principle of least privilege controls, and monitoring for unauthorized file system access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The lack of response from the project maintainers following initial issue reporting represents a critical gap in vulnerability management practices and underscores the importance of proactive security measures when dealing with open source components that have not received timely patches or acknowledgments from their maintainers.
Security teams should monitor for potential exploitation indicators such as unusual file system access patterns, unauthorized directory traversal attempts, or suspicious file modifications occurring within systems utilizing this library. The public disclosure of the exploit increases the likelihood of automated scanning tools targeting vulnerable installations, making prompt remediation essential. Implementation of proper access controls and input validation mechanisms within the scan_project_icons/sync_icon functionality would prevent attackers from manipulating the icons_file parameter to achieve path traversal effects. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments of third-party libraries and maintainers of open source projects should include evaluation of response times to security disclosures as part of overall risk management practices.