CVE-2026-65923 in Artifactory
Summary
by MITRE • 07/27/2026
A URL validation weakness in JFrog Artifactory Ansible repository handling could allow a user, under specific repository access conditions, to cause unintended server-side requests. The issue primarily affects confidentiality and integrity and has been addressed in fixed Artifactory versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2026
The vulnerability described represents a server-side request forgery issue within JFrog Artifactory's Ansible repository functionality that stems from inadequate URL validation mechanisms. This weakness specifically manifests when processing repository metadata or artifact references, creating an attack vector where malicious actors can manipulate URL parameters to trigger unintended network requests from the vulnerable server. The flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization that enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially exfiltrate sensitive information or compromise backend systems. According to industry standards such as CWE-918, this vulnerability falls under Server-Side Request Forgery, which is classified as a critical security concern due to its potential for enabling further attacks through unauthorized network communications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Artifactory processes Ansible repository metadata that contains external URL references without proper validation of the target domains or protocols. Attackers can craft malicious repository entries or manipulate existing ones to include URLs pointing to internal systems, external malicious servers, or services that the Artifactory server has access to. This creates a scenario where legitimate server processes attempt to resolve these URLs, potentially leading to data leakage, internal network reconnaissance, or even command execution if the server can make requests to vulnerable internal services. The attack requires specific repository access conditions, meaning that users must already have permissions to modify or create repository entries, but once exploited, the impact extends beyond the immediate repository boundaries. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol and T1566 for phishing techniques, as it can be used to deliver payloads through manipulated repository entries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability primarily affects data confidentiality and system integrity within organizations using JFrog Artifactory. When exploited, the vulnerability can enable attackers to access internal resources that should normally be restricted, potentially exposing sensitive artifacts, credentials, or configuration files stored in the repository. The risk is particularly elevated for organizations that store proprietary software components, security keys, or other confidential information within their Artifactory instances. Additionally, the vulnerability could facilitate further attacks by allowing attackers to establish connections to external command and control servers, enabling persistent access to compromised environments. Organizations may experience unauthorized data transfers, potential service disruption, and increased attack surface exposure. The fix typically involves implementing strict URL validation that rejects malformed or suspicious protocol schemes and domain references, along with proper access controls that limit repository modification privileges to authorized personnel only.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of patched Artifactory versions that contain the necessary URL validation improvements. Organizations must also implement comprehensive network segmentation and firewall rules that restrict outbound connections from Artifactory servers to prevent unauthorized external communications. Additional protective measures include enabling strict content filtering, implementing repository access auditing, and conducting regular security assessments of repository configurations. Security teams should monitor for unusual repository modification patterns and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing potential server-side request forgery attacks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in web applications and demonstrates how seemingly minor flaws in URL handling can create significant security risks. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security scanning tools that can detect similar issues in other applications and services within their infrastructure, as this type of vulnerability commonly appears in systems that process external references without adequate sanitization controls.