CVE-2026-43999: vm2: NodeVM builtin allowlist bypass via `module` builtin's `Module._load` allows sandbox escape

Description

vm2 is an open source vm/sandbox for Node.js. Prior to 3.11.0, NodeVM's builtin allowlist can be bypassed when the module builtin is allowed (including via the '*' wildcard). The module builtin exposes Node's Module._load(), which loads any module by name directly in the host context, completely bypassing vm2's builtin restriction. This allows sandboxed code to load excluded builtins like child_process and achieve remote code execution. This vulnerability is fixed in 3.11.0.

CVSS vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges

Low

User interaction

None

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

High

Scope

Changed

Exploitation

Is it being used?

Exploit prediction (EPSS)1.0% · higher than 62% of CVEs

Exploited in the wildNo evidence yet

CISA KEVNot listed

Ransomware campaign useNot known

Affected products

Which versions

VM

vm2 · patriksimek

< 3.11.0 · source: vendor, NVD

RH

Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform 2.1 · Red Hat

All versions, or not specified · source: CISA