Vulnerability Description
internetarchive is a Python and Command-Line Interface to Archive.org In versions 5.5.0 and below, there is a directory traversal (path traversal) vulnerability in the File.download() method of the internetarchive library. The file.download() method does not properly sanitize user-supplied filenames or validate the final download path. A maliciously crafted filename could contain path traversal sequences (e.g., ../../../../windows/system32/file.txt) or illegal characters that, when processed, would cause the file to be written outside of the intended target directory. An attacker could potentially overwrite critical system files or application configuration files, leading to a denial of service, privilege escalation, or remote code execution, depending on the context in which the library is used. The vulnerability is particularly critical for users on Windows systems, but all operating systems are affected. This issue is fixed in version 5.5.1.
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://github.com/jjjake/internetarchive/commit/cba2d459e10a9489fb35caeba0b03e8
- https://github.com/jjjake/internetarchive/releases/tag/v5.5.1
- https://github.com/jjjake/internetarchive/security/advisories/GHSA-wx3r-v6h7-frj
- https://lists.debian.org/debian-lts-announce/2025/09/msg00030.html
FAQ
What is CVE-2025-58438?
CVE-2025-58438 is a documented vulnerability. internetarchive is a Python and Command-Line Interface to Archive.org In versions 5.5.0 and below, there is a directory traversal (path traversal) vulnerability in the File.download() method of the in...
How severe is CVE-2025-58438?
CVSS scoring is not yet available for CVE-2025-58438. Check NVD for updates.
Is there a patch for CVE-2025-58438?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Review vendor security bulletins for remediation guidance.