CVE-2026-72763 in n8n
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2026
n8n before 1.123.67, 2.31.5, and 2.32.1 validates credential-access only for a node's top-level credentials and not for credentials referenced inside an Execute Sub-workflow node's inline workflow JSON. A member with Editor access to a shared workflow (when workflow sharing is enabled) who knows a target credential's ID can reference that credential in the inline JSON; it passes save-time and runtime validation and resolves in the parent workflow's project context, allowing the attacker to use or exfiltrate credentials they are not permitted to access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2026
This vulnerability affects n8n versions prior to 1.123.67, 2.31.5, and 2.32.1, representing a critical authorization bypass issue that undermines the platform's credential security model. The flaw exists in how the system handles credential validation within workflow execution contexts, specifically when Execute Sub-workflow nodes are involved. When a workflow is shared with Editor-level permissions, attackers can exploit this gap by referencing credentials through inline JSON configuration within the sub-workflow definition rather than through standard credential selection interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inconsistent validation logic that only checks credential access permissions at the top level of workflow nodes but fails to validate access rights when credentials are referenced within nested workflow structures. This creates a scenario where an attacker with Editor privileges on a shared workflow can construct malicious inline JSON that references credentials they should not have access to, as long as they know the credential ID. The system accepts these references during both save-time and runtime validation phases, allowing the credential resolution to occur within the parent workflow's project context where the attacker has elevated privileges.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables unauthorized credential access and potential data exfiltration across multiple threat scenarios. An attacker could use compromised credentials to access external systems, databases, or APIs that the original credential owner had legitimate access to but which the attacker should not be permitted to use. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages existing workflow sharing mechanisms and requires minimal reconnaissance beyond knowing a target credential ID, making it relatively easy to exploit in environments where workflows are shared among team members.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-285 (Improper Authorization) and represents a privilege escalation issue within the n8n platform's access control system. The mitigation approach must address the core validation gap by implementing consistent credential access checks throughout all workflow execution contexts, including nested sub-workflows. Organizations should immediately update to the patched versions and implement additional monitoring for suspicious credential usage patterns. Security teams should also review existing workflow sharing configurations and consider implementing more granular access controls for shared workflows. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as privilege escalation through credential access abuse, specifically targeting the execution of unauthorized commands using stolen or improperly authorized credentials within automated workflow systems.