CVE-2023-46249

What it is

authentik is an open-source Identity Provider. Prior to versions 2023.8.4 and 2023.10.2, when the default admin user has been deleted, it is potentially possible for an attacker to set the password of the default admin user without any authentication. authentik uses a blueprint to create the default admin user, which can also optionally set the default admin users' password from an environment variable. When the user is deleted, the `initial-setup` flow used to configure authentik after the first installation becomes available again. authentik 2023.8.4 and 2023.10.2 fix this issue. As a workaround, ensure the default admin user (Username `akadmin`) exists and has a password set. It is recommended to use a very strong password for this user, and store it in a secure location like a password manager. It is also possible to deactivate the user to prevent any logins as akadmin.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in, but needs a user to act. High risk of data exposure, data tampering, service disruption.

Exploit odds

0.8% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

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

Timeline

1. 2023-10-31 16:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 06:30 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.8% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 9.6 CRITICAL (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2023-10-31 16:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 06:30 UTC

Exploit probability

0.8% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-287 · Improper authentication

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Goauthentik Authentik < 2023.8.4
• Goauthentik Authentik < 2023.10.2

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 9.6

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

Required

Scope

Changed

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

High

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-2023-46249.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-46249. 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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