CVE-2020-5284 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Next.js versions before 9.3.2 have a directory traversal vulnerability that allows attackers to access files in the dist directory. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2020-5284

Next.js versions below 9.3.2 are affected by a directory traversal vulnerability that could be exploited by attackers.

What is CVE-2020-5284?

CVE-2020-5284 is a vulnerability in Next.js versions prior to 9.3.2 that enables attackers to perform directory traversal attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5284

CVSS Base Score: 4.4 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Scope: Changed
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Privileges Required: Low
Availability Impact: None
This vulnerability is tracked as CWE-23: Relative Path Traversal.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5284

Next.js vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability to access files in the dist directory (.next) of Next.js versions before 9.3.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: next.js
Vendor: zeit
Vulnerable Versions: < 9.3.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can craft special requests to access files within the dist directory, potentially compromising the application's security.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-5284 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Next.js to version 9.3.2 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive directories within the application.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to mitigate the risk of directory traversal attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by Next.js.