CVE-2026-55488 in motioneye
Summary
by MITRE • 06/24/2026
motionEye (mEye) is an online interface for a piece of software called "motion," which is a video surveillance program with motion detection. Versions prior to 0.44.0 contain an absolute path traversal vulnerability in multiple media file handlers that allows an attacker to read arbitrary files from the filesystem. The affected handlers accept a user-controlled filename parameter and construct filesystem paths using `os.path.join()`. When an absolute path is supplied, Python discards the configured media directory and returns the attacker-supplied path directly. The application then bypasses Tornado's built-in path validation by overriding the relevant safety checks. As a result, an attacker can access files outside of the configured camera media directory, subject to the permissions of the motionEye process. Version 0.44.0 fixes the issue.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2026
The motionEye software represents a widely deployed solution for video surveillance systems that leverages the open-source motion detection program to provide automated monitoring capabilities. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 0440 and specifically targets the media file handling mechanisms within the application's web interface. The core flaw manifests as an absolute path traversal vulnerability that directly compromises the security boundaries established by the software's intended directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper path construction practices within the affected media handlers. When user-supplied filename parameters are processed, the code utilizes os.path.join() function which exhibits behavior that discards previously configured directory paths when absolute paths are provided. This fundamental design flaw allows attackers to bypass the intended security restrictions by supplying absolute file paths that directly reference system resources outside of the designated camera media directory. The vulnerability operates at the core level of path handling where Python's path joining mechanism fails to maintain proper security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive system files and configuration data that may contain credentials, system configurations, or other confidential information. The bypass of Tornado's built-in path validation mechanisms represents a particularly concerning aspect since it demonstrates how the application's own security controls can be circumvented through careful exploitation of its core functionality. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access files with permissions equivalent to those of the motionEye process, potentially escalating privileges or extracting valuable data from the system.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 which specifically addresses path traversal attacks and demonstrates how improper input validation and path construction can lead to unauthorized file access. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and potentially T1566 (Phishing for Information) when combined with reconnaissance activities. The exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where motionEye systems are deployed without proper network segmentation or access controls.
The remediation implemented in version 0440 addresses the core issue by properly validating user input before path construction and ensuring that absolute paths are rejected or appropriately sanitized. This fix aligns with security best practices recommended in OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards for preventing path traversal vulnerabilities. Organizations deploying motionEye systems should immediately upgrade to version 0440 or later, while also implementing additional security measures such as network segmentation, privilege minimization, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and path handling in security-sensitive applications, particularly those managing physical security infrastructure where unauthorized access could have serious operational consequences.