Top 10 Critical CVEs in End-of-Life Node.js Versions: Assessing Risks and Solutions

As organizations continue to rely on Node.js for building scalable network applications, it's crucial to recognize the risks associated with using end-of-life (EOL) versions. These outdated versions no longer receive official security updates, leaving applications vulnerable to known exploits. Below, we examine the top 10 critical Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) affecting EOL Node.js versions, emphasizing the importance of timely mitigation to ensure application security.

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1. CVE-2025-23087: Insufficient Security Controls in Node.js ≤ v17.x

This critical vulnerability affects Node.js versions 17.x and earlier, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access due to inadequate security measures. The severity of this flaw necessitates immediate attention from users operating these older versions.

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2. CVE-2025-23088: Arbitrary Code Execution in Node.js v19.x

Impacting Node.js v19.x, this vulnerability permits attackers to bypass security protocols and execute arbitrary code. Users of this version should promptly update to the latest release to mitigate potential risks.

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3. CVE-2025-23089: Access Control Weaknesses in Node.js v21.x

Similar to CVE-2025-23088, this flaw affects Node.js v21.x, where insufficient access control and security features could be exploited by attackers. Upgrading to patched versions is essential for users of this release line.

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4. CVE-2025-23083: Worker Permission Bypass in Node.js v20.x, v22.x, and v23.x

A high-severity vulnerability in Node.js versions 20.x, 22.x, and 23.x involves the exploitation of the internal worker leak mechanism via the diagnostics_channel utility. This flaw could lead to unauthorized access to worker threads, potentially resulting in privilege escalation.

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5. CVE-2025-23084: Path Traversal Vulnerability on Windows Platforms

This medium-severity issue affects Windows users of Node.js, where improper handling of drive names allows attackers to bypass path restrictions and access unauthorized directories. Implementing proper input validation and updating to patched versions can mitigate this risk.

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6. CVE-2025-23085: GOAWAY HTTP/2 Memory Leak

A memory leak vulnerability triggered when a remote peer closes the socket without sending a GOAWAY notification affects Node.js versions 18.x, 20.x, 22.x, and 23.x. This issue can lead to increased resource consumption and potential denial-of-service (DoS) conditions.

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7. CVE-2021-22918: Use After Free in HTTP2 on Stream Canceling

This vulnerability in Node.js allows a use-after-free error during HTTP/2 stream cancellation, potentially leading to application crashes or arbitrary code execution. Users should update to the latest versions where this issue is resolved.

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8. CVE-2021-22921: DNS Rebinding in --inspect via Invalid Host Headers

A DNS rebinding vulnerability exists in Node.js when the --inspect flag is used, allowing attackers to bypass host-based access controls. Disabling the inspector or using allowed host configurations can mitigate this risk.

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9. CVE-2021-22930: Weak Random Number Generation in Crypto Module

The crypto module in certain Node.js versions uses a weak random number generator, potentially compromising cryptographic operations. Updating to versions with improved entropy sources is recommended.

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10. CVE-2021-22931: HTTP Request Smuggling via Malformed Transfer-Encoding Header

This vulnerability allows HTTP request smuggling attacks due to improper parsing of the Transfer-Encoding header in Node.js. Applying patches that address this parsing issue is essential.

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Mitigation Strategies

To protect your applications from these vulnerabilities:

• Upgrade Node.js: Transition to the latest supported versions of Node.js to benefit from ongoing security updates and patches.
• Implement Security Best Practices: Regularly audit your codebase, employ static analysis tools, and follow secure coding guidelines to minimize vulnerabilities.
• Leverage Extended Support Services: For organizations unable to upgrade immediately, consider services like HeroDevs' Never-Ending Support (NES), which provides security patches and maintenance for EOL Node.js versions, ensuring your applications remain secure, compliant, and compatible.
  

By proactively addressing these critical vulnerabilities, you can maintain the security and integrity of your legacy Node.js applications, safeguarding your systems against potential threats.