PatchTheCVECVE-2019-5484: Bower before 1.8.8 has a path traversal vulnerability permitting file write in arbitrary locations via install
CVE-2019-5484 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.5) affecting bower. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
Bower before 1.8.8 has a path traversal vulnerability permitting file write in arbitrary locations via install command, which allows attackers to write arbitrary files when a malicious package is extracted.
Why this priority
- High severity
- Public exploit reference
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.5 (High) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 2.6% (top 15%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-22 |
| Published | 2019-09-13 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2019-5484?
bower: upgrade to 1.8.8. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2019-5484 being exploited?
CVE-2019-5484 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2019-5484 affect?
CVE-2019-5484 affects bower. Severity is high (CVSS 7.5). Bower before 1.8.8 has a path traversal vulnerability permitting file write in arbitrary locations via install command, which allows attackers to write arbitrary files when a malicious package is extracted.
How urgent is CVE-2019-5484?
Priority 58/100. High severity; Public exploit reference; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action