CVE-2023-48228: OAuth2: PKCE can be fully circumvented

Published Nov 21, 2023
·
Updated

authentik is an open-source identity provider. When initialising a oauth2 flow with a codechallenge and codemethod (thus requesting PKCE), the single sign-on provider (authentik) must check if there is a matching and existing codeverifier during the token step. Prior to versions 2023.10.4 and 2023.8.5, authentik checks if the contents of codeverifier is matching only when it is provided. When it is left out completely, authentik simply accepts the token request with out it; even when the flow was started with a codechallenge. authentik 2023.8.5 and 2023.10.4 fix this issue.

Affected Software

2 affected components
goauthentik Authentik<2023.8.5
goauthentik Authentik>=2023.10.0<2023.10.4

Event History

Nov 21, 2023
CVE Published
08:48 PM
Data Sourced
08:48 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is CVE-2023-48228?

CVE-2023-48228 is a vulnerability in the OAuth2 implementation of authentik that allows for the circumvention of PKCE (Proof Key for Code Exchange).

2

What is the severity of CVE-2023-48228?

The severity of CVE-2023-48228 is critical with a CVSS score of 9.8.

3

How does CVE-2023-48228 affect authentik?

CVE-2023-48228 affects versions of authentik prior to 2023.10.4.

4

How can the vulnerability be exploited?

The vulnerability can be exploited by requesting an oauth2 flow with a `code_challenge` and `code_method` without checking for a matching and existing `code_verifier` during the token step.

5

Are there any known fixes for CVE-2023-48228?

Yes, the fix for CVE-2023-48228 can be found in versions 2023.10.4 and later of authentik.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203