CVE-2026-21637

Published Jan 20, 2026

Last updated 3 months ago

Overview

Description
A flaw in Node.js TLS error handling allows remote attackers to crash or exhaust resources of a TLS server when `pskCallback` or `ALPNCallback` are in use. Synchronous exceptions thrown during these callbacks bypass standard TLS error handling paths (tlsClientError and error), causing either immediate process termination or silent file descriptor leaks that eventually lead to denial of service. Because these callbacks process attacker-controlled input during the TLS handshake, a remote client can repeatedly trigger the issue. This vulnerability affects TLS servers using PSK or ALPN callbacks across Node.js versions where these callbacks throw without being safely wrapped.
Source
support@hackerone.com
NVD status
Analyzed
Products
node.js

Risk scores

CVSS 3.1

Type
Primary
Base score
7.5
Impact score
3.6
Exploitability score
3.9
Vector string
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H
Severity
HIGH

CVSS 3.0

Type
Secondary
Base score
5.9
Impact score
3.6
Exploitability score
2.2
Vector string
CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H
Severity
MEDIUM

Weaknesses

134c704f-9b21-4f2e-91b3-4a467353bcc0
CWE-400

Social media

Hype score
Not currently trending

Configurations

References

Sources include official advisories and independent security research.