CVE-2026-25052: n8n Improper File Access Controls Allow Arbitrary File Read by Authenticated Users
Impact
A vulnerability in the file access controls allows authenticated users with permission to create or modify workflows to read sensitive files from the n8n host system. This can be exploited to obtain critical configuration data and user credentials, leading to complete account takeover of any user on the instance.
Patches
The issue has been fixed in n8n version 1.123.18 and 2.5.0. Users should upgrade to this version or later to remediate the vulnerability.
Workarounds
If upgrading is not immediately possible, administrators should consider the following temporary mitigations:
- Limit workflow creation and editing permissions to fully trusted users only. - Restrict access to nodes that interact with the file system, particularly the "Read/Write Files from Disk" and "Git" nodes.
These workarounds do not fully remediate the risk and should only be used as short-term mitigation measures.
Resources
- n8n Documentation — Blocking nodes — how to globally disable specific nodes
--- n8n has adopted CVSS 4.0 as primary score for all security advisories. CVSS 3.1 vector strings are provided for backward compatibility.
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H
Other sources
n8n is an open source workflow automation platform. Prior to versions 1.123.18 and 2.5.0, a vulnerability in the file access controls allows authenticated users with permission to create or modify workflows to read sensitive files from the n8n host system. This can be exploited to obtain critical configuration data and user credentials, leading to complete account takeover of any user on the instance. This issue has been patched in versions 1.123.18 and 2.5.0.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-25052?
CVE-2026-25052 is categorized as a medium severity vulnerability due to the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive files by authenticated users.
How do I fix CVE-2026-25052?
To remediate CVE-2026-25052, upgrade to n8n version 1.123.18 or 2.5.0 or later releases.
Who is affected by CVE-2026-25052?
CVE-2026-25052 affects authenticated users of n8n who have permission to create or modify workflows.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-25052?
CVE-2026-25052 is an improper file access control vulnerability that allows arbitrary file read.
Can CVE-2026-25052 lead to data exposure?
Yes, CVE-2026-25052 can lead to data exposure by allowing access to sensitive files on the n8n host system.