CVE-2026-23491 in InvoicePlane
Summary
by MITRE • 02/18/2026
InvoicePlane is a self-hosted open source application for managing invoices, clients, and payments. a path traversal vulnerability exists in the `get_file` method of the `Guest` module's `Get` controller in InvoicePlane up to and including through 1.6.3. The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to read arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the input filename. This leads to the disclosure of sensitive information, including configuration files with database credentials. Version 1.6.4 fixes the issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-23491 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the InvoicePlane open source invoicing application. This security weakness resides in the guest module's get controller where the get_file method fails to properly validate user-supplied input parameters. The vulnerability affects all versions of InvoicePlane up to and including version 1.6.3, making it a widespread concern for organizations that have not yet upgraded to the patched release. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes file retrieval requests without adequate sanitization of the filename parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the ability to access sensitive configuration files that typically contain database credentials, application secrets, and other critical system information. Unauthenticated attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the filename input parameter to navigate through the file system and retrieve files that should remain protected. The consequences include potential data breaches, unauthorized access to backend databases, and the possibility of escalating privileges within the affected system. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and undermines the security boundaries that should protect sensitive application components from unauthorized access. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication credentials, making it accessible to anyone who can reach the application's web interface.
Organizations utilizing InvoicePlane versions 1.6.3 and earlier must urgently implement remediation measures to address this vulnerability. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to version 1.6.4 or later, which contains the necessary patches to prevent path traversal attacks. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code can serve as an additional defensive layer. System administrators should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor access logs for suspicious activity patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of validating all user inputs and implementing proper access controls, particularly for applications that handle sensitive financial information and personal data. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The incident highlights the critical need for regular security updates and patch management processes, as well as the importance of adhering to security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. This vulnerability serves as a reminder that even open source applications require ongoing security maintenance and monitoring to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses.