CVE-2025-14559: Org.keycloak/keycloak-services: keycloak keycloak-services: business logic flaw allows unauthorized token issuance for disabled users
A business logic vulnerability exists in the Token Exchange implementation within the keycloak-services component. When a privileged client invokes the token exchange flow, Keycloak correctly validates the client but fails to validate whether the target “requestedsubject” user is enabled. This omission allows issuance of access and refresh tokens for users whose accounts have been explicitly disabled. An internal client with the impersonation permission can therefore resurrect “zombie accounts,” obtaining tokens for former employees or banned users despite account deactivation. This flaw enables unauthorized use of previously revoked privileges and relies solely on the presence of an internal high-privileged client, requiring no user interaction or direct authentication by the disabled user.
Other sources
A flaw was found in the keycloak-services component of Keycloak. This vulnerability allows the issuance of access and refresh tokens for disabled users, leading to unauthorized use of previously revoked privileges, via a business logic vulnerability in the Token Exchange implementation when a privileged client invokes the token exchange flow.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2025-14559?
CVE-2025-14559 is classified as a business logic flaw that allows unauthorized token issuance for disabled users, which poses a significant security risk.
How does CVE-2025-14559 affect Keycloak services?
CVE-2025-14559 affects the Token Exchange implementation in Keycloak services, potentially allowing privileged clients to issue tokens for disabled accounts.
How do I fix CVE-2025-14559?
To remediate CVE-2025-14559, it is recommended to upgrade to Keycloak services version 26.5.2 or later, where the vulnerability is addressed.
Who is affected by CVE-2025-14559?
Any organization using affected versions of Keycloak services is at risk of CVE-2025-14559 if they rely on the Token Exchange functionality.
What are the potential impacts of CVE-2025-14559?
The potential impacts of CVE-2025-14559 include unauthorized access to sensitive resources by issuing tokens for disabled user accounts.