CVE-2019-5418
Published: July 7, 2025
Official Description
Rails Ruby on Rails contains a path traversal vulnerability in Action View. Specially crafted accept headers in combination with calls to `render file:` can cause arbitrary files on the target server to be rendered, disclosing the file contents.
CISA KEV Advisory
Rails Ruby on Rails Path Traversal Vulnerability
Rails Ruby on Rails contains a path traversal vulnerability in Action View. Specially crafted accept headers in combination with calls to `render file:` can cause arbitrary files on the target server to be rendered, disclosing the file contents.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
Rails Ruby on Rails has a path traversal vulnerability in Action View, where specially crafted accept headers combined with render file: calls can disclose arbitrary file contents. The high EPSS score of 0.94336 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, making this an important vulnerability to address. This vulnerability is confirmed as exploited by CISA.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and is listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog. The exploit vector via HTTP headers suggests it is remotely exploitable.
Upgrade Rails Ruby on Rails to a patched version that addresses the path traversal vulnerability. Implement input validation for HTTP accept headers and restrict the use of render file: where possible.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2019-5418 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2019-5418 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2019-5418 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1