CVE-2025-48936: ZITADEL Allows Account Takeover via Malicious X-Forwarded-Proto Header Injection
Impact
A potential vulnerability exists in ZITADEL's password reset mechanism. ZITADEL utilizes the Forwarded or X-Forwarded-Host header from incoming requests to construct the URL for the password reset confirmation link. This link, containing a secret code, is then emailed to the user.
If an attacker can manipulate these headers (e.g., via host header injection), they could cause ZITADEL to generate a password reset link pointing to a malicious domain controlled by the attacker. If the user clicks this manipulated link in the email, the secret reset code embedded in the URL can be captured by the attacker. This captured code could then be used to reset the user's password and gain unauthorized access to their account.
It's important to note that this specific attack vector is mitigated for accounts that have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or Passwordless authentication enabled.
Patches
Patched version ensure proper validation of the headers and do not allow downgrading from https to http.
3.x versions are fixed on >=3.2.2 2.71.x versions are fixed on >=2.71.11 2.x versions are fixed on >=2.70.12
Workarounds
The recommended solution is to update ZITADEL to a patched version.
A ZITADEL fronting proxy can be configured to delete all Forwarded and X-Forwarded-Host header values before sending requests to ZITADEL self-hosted environments.
Questions
If you have any questions or comments about this advisory, please email us at security@zitadel.com
Credits
Thanks to Amit Laish – GE Vernova for finding and reporting the vulnerability.
Other sources
Zitadel is open-source identity infrastructure software. Prior to versions 2.70.12, 2.71.10, and 3.2.2, a potential vulnerability exists in the password reset mechanism. ZITADEL utilizes the Forwarded or X-Forwarded-Host header from incoming requests to construct the URL for the password reset confirmation link. This link, containing a secret code, is then emailed to the user. If an attacker can manipulate these headers (e.g., via host header injection), they could cause ZITADEL to generate a password reset link pointing to a malicious domain controlled by the attacker. If the user clicks this manipulated link in the email, the secret reset code embedded in the URL can be captured by the attacker. This captured code could then be used to reset the user's password and gain unauthorized access to their account. This specific attack vector is mitigated for accounts that have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or Passwordless authentication enabled. This issue has been patched in versions 2.70.12, 2.71.10, and 3.2.2.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2025-48936?
CVE-2025-48936 is classified as a significant vulnerability due to its potential exposure of sensitive information through insecure password reset mechanisms.
How do I fix CVE-2025-48936?
To fix CVE-2025-48936, upgrade ZITADEL to versions 2.71.11, 3.2.2, or 2.70.12 as applicable.
What software is affected by CVE-2025-48936?
CVE-2025-48936 affects ZITADEL versions prior to 2.71.11, 3.2.2, and certain versions within the 2.70.x series.
What impact does CVE-2025-48936 have on users?
The impact of CVE-2025-48936 can lead to unauthorized access or manipulation of user accounts through the compromised password reset link.
Is CVE-2025-48936 a common vulnerability?
CVE-2025-48936 is a specific vulnerability related to ZITADEL's password reset mechanism, but similar issues can occur in other applications that rely on user-controlled headers.