CVE-2023-23616

What it is

Discourse is an open-source discussion platform. Prior to version 3.0.1 on the `stable` branch and 3.1.0.beta2 on the `beta` and `tests-passed` branches, when submitting a membership request, there is no character limit for the reason provided with the request. This could potentially allow a user to flood the database with a large amount of data. However it is unlikely this could be used as part of a DoS attack, as the paths reading back the reasons are only available to administrators. Starting in version 3.0.1 on the `stable` branch and 3.1.0.beta2 on the `beta` and `tests-passed` branches, a limit of 280 characters has been introduced for membership requests.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network with a low-privilege account, but needs a user to act. Limited direct impact.

Exploit odds

0.7% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2023-01-28 00:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 05:37 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.7% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 3.5 LOW (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2023-01-28 00:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 05:37 UTC

Exploit probability

0.7% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-400 · Uncontrolled resource consumption

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Discourse < 3.0.1
• Discourse 1.1.0
• Discourse 1.2.0
• Discourse 1.3.0
• Discourse 1.4.0
• Discourse 1.5.0
• Discourse 1.6.0
• Discourse 1.7.0

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 3.5

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

Required

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

None

Availability

Low

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2023-23616.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-23616. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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