JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA Vulnerability Allows Arbitrary File Reading
A high-severity vulnerability, CVE-2026-41882, has been identified in JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA, with a CVSS score of 7.4. According to the National Vulnerability Database, this flaw allows for arbitrary local file reading via the built-in web server. This is a critical issue, exposing potentially sensitive development files or system configurations.
The vulnerability impacts multiple versions of IntelliJ IDEA, specifically before 2024.3.7.1, 2025.1.7.1, 2025.2.6.2, 2025.3.4.1, and 2026.1.1. The root cause is categorized as CWE-59, indicating an improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory (‘Path Traversal’). Attackers could leverage this to exfiltrate critical information from developer workstations.
Defenders must prioritize patching. This isn’t just about a single developer’s machine; compromised developer environments are often the initial foothold for sophisticated supply chain attacks. Attackers will undoubtedly target this flaw to gain access to source code, credentials, and internal network details.
What This Means For You
- If your development teams use JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA, you need to verify they are running patched versions immediately. Audit developer workstations for unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activity, particularly related to the built-in web server. This vulnerability provides a direct path to sensitive intellectual property and internal network data.
Related ATT&CK Techniques
🛡️ Detection Rules
2 rules · 6 SIEM formats2 detection rules auto-generated for this incident, mapped to MITRE ATT&CK. Sigma YAML is free — export to any SIEM format via the Intel Bot.
JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA Arbitrary File Read via Built-in Web Server — CVE-2026-41882
title: JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA Arbitrary File Read via Built-in Web Server — CVE-2026-41882
id: scw-2026-04-30-ai-1
status: experimental
level: high
description: |
Detects attempts to read arbitrary local files from JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA's built-in web server by exploiting CVE-2026-41882. The rule looks for URL encoding patterns commonly used in path traversal attacks within the URI and query parameters, specifically targeting the vulnerability in versions prior to 2024.3.7.1, 2025.1.7.1, 2025.2.6.2, 2025.3.4.1, and 2026.1.1. A successful file read is indicated by an HTTP 200 status code.
author: SCW Feed Engine (AI-generated)
date: 2026-04-30
references:
- https://shimiscyberworld.com/posts/nvd-CVE-2026-41882/
tags:
- attack.initial_access
- attack.t1190
logsource:
category: webserver
detection:
selection:
cs-uri|contains:
- '/..%252f'
- '/..%255c'
cs-uri-query|contains:
- '..%252f'
- '..%255c'
sc-status:
- 200
condition: selection
falsepositives:
- Legitimate administrative activity
Source: Shimi's Cyber World · License & reuse
Indicators of Compromise
| ID | Type | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| CVE-2026-41882 | Vulnerability | CVE-2026-41882 |
| CVE-2026-41882 | Affected Product | JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA |
Written by SCW Vulnerability Desk
Source & Attribution
| Source Platform | NVD |
| Channel | National Vulnerability Database |
| Published | April 30, 2026 at 15:16 UTC |
This content was AI-rewritten and enriched by Shimi's Cyber World based on the original source. All intellectual property rights remain with the original author.
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