REDHAT-BUG-2503139: High severity Keycloak Keycloak vulnerability
A vulnerability was identified in Keycloak where the SAML Identity Provider IdP metadata parser incorrectly configures signature validation. When a metadata document is imported that sets WantAuthnRequestsSigned to false and includes a KeyDescriptor without an explicit use attribute, the parser stores the certificate but fails to enable the validateSignature setting. As a result, the broker endpoint /realms/realm/broker/alias/endpoint does not verify the cryptographic signature of incoming SAML responses. An unauthenticated remote attacker can exploit this by capturing a valid RelayState and SAML request ID through a standard login flow and then submitting a forged, unsigned SAML response. By providing the external SAML NameID of a target user, the attacker can successfully authenticate as that user. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to: Bypass authentication mechanisms.
Impersonate any user who has a federated identity link.
Access and modify data belonging to the compromised user account.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Configuration
Ensure Keycloak enables cryptographic signature validation for incoming SAML responses at /realms/realm/broker/alias/endpoint (i.e., the metadata import must result in validateSignature being enabled, not silently left disabled when a metadata document sets WantAuthnRequestsSigned to false).
Keycloak SAML IdP metadata parser / broker endpoint (/realms/realm/broker/alias/endpoint) validateSignature = true
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of REDHAT-BUG-2503139?
The severity of REDHAT-BUG-2503139 is classified as high with a score of 7.
How do I fix REDHAT-BUG-2503139?
To fix REDHAT-BUG-2503139, update to the latest patched version of Keycloak that addresses this vulnerability.
What are the potential impacts of REDHAT-BUG-2503139?
The potential impacts of REDHAT-BUG-2503139 include unauthorized access due to improper signature validation in the SAML IdP metadata parser.
When was REDHAT-BUG-2503139 published?
REDHAT-BUG-2503139 was published on July 21, 2026.
What software is affected by REDHAT-BUG-2503139?
The affected software by REDHAT-BUG-2503139 is Keycloak.