CVE-2026-26185: Directus Affected by User Enumeration via Password Reset Timing Attack
Summary
A timing-based user enumeration vulnerability exists in the password reset functionality. When an invalid reseturl parameter is provided, the response time differs by approximately 500ms between existing and non-existing users, enabling reliable user enumeration.
Details
The password reset endpoint implements a timing protection mechanism to prevent user enumeration; however, URL validation executes before the timing protection is applied. This allows an attacker to distinguish between valid and invalid user accounts based on response timing differences.
Impact
This vulnerability violates user privacy and may facilitate targeted phishing attacks by allowing attackers to confirm the existence of user accounts.
Other sources
Directus is a real-time API and App dashboard for managing SQL database content. Before 11.14.1, a timing-based user enumeration vulnerability exists in the password reset functionality. When an invalid reseturl parameter is provided, the response time differs by approximately 500ms between existing and non-existing users, enabling reliable user enumeration. This vulnerability is fixed in 11.14.1.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Remediation
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-26185?
CVE-2026-26185 is classified as a vulnerability that can lead to user enumeration through timing attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2026-26185?
To mitigate CVE-2026-26185, upgrade to Directus version 11.14.1 or higher, or @directus/api version 32.2.0 or higher.
What is the risk associated with CVE-2026-26185?
CVE-2026-26185 allows attackers to determine valid usernames by analyzing response times, which could facilitate unauthorized access.
Which versions of Directus are affected by CVE-2026-26185?
CVE-2026-26185 affects Directus versions prior to 11.14.1 and @directus/api versions prior to 32.2.0.
What type of attack does CVE-2026-26185 involve?
CVE-2026-26185 involves a timing-based user enumeration attack specifically targeting the password reset functionality.