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External risk intelligence

vm2 sandbox could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the host system

The vm2 sandbox tool could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the host system by bypassing security boundaries, potentially exposing operational systems, sensitive files, or customer data. This vulnerability affects applications that rely on this library to isolate untrusted code.

NVD published May 13, 2026 (2 days ago)

External risk briefCRITICAL

CVE-2026-45411

Halo Surface Signal

2/ 5

The vulnerable component is a software library (vm2) integrated into applications. It is not an internet-facing service or appliance by design. Its exposure to the public internet depends entirely on the specific implementation within a custom application, which is not a default or common pattern for this component.

Exposure facts

H – Horizon Alert

We have identified a security vulnerability within the vm2 sandbox tool used for Node.js environments. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate specific coding structures to "escape" the sandbox, effectively bypassing the security boundaries designed to keep operations isolated. If exploited, this could grant an unauthorized user the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the host system, posing a significant risk to the integrity of the underlying infrastructure.

A – Asset Exposure

This vulnerability affects applications that utilize the `vm2` sandbox library to isolate and process untrusted code within Node.js environments. If this sandbox is bypassed, it may allow unauthorized execution of commands on the host system, potentially compromising operational systems, sensitive files, or customer data. Because this library is integrated into larger software, the extent of the risk depends on whether your specific application architecture processes untrusted input from external or internal sources.

L – Live Threat

The available context does not indicate active exploitation or specific observed targeting regarding this sandbox escape vulnerability. While the flaw allows for unauthorized command execution if successfully triggered, there is no evidence provided of public exploit code or ongoing malicious activity associated with this issue. Consequently, there are no live-threat signals to report at this time.

O – Operational Fix

To address the security vulnerability identified in the vm2 sandbox library, please prioritize identifying all applications within your environment that rely on this component. We recommend that your engineering team promptly apply the vendor-provided update to resolve the issue and ensure the continued security of your host systems. Taking this step will secure the sandbox environment and effectively prevent potential unauthorized command execution.

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