CVE-2026-85166

What it is

n8n before 2.35.4 and 2.36.x before 2.36.2 does not validate credential references in the inline workflow JSON of nodes that execute an inline sub-workflow (e.g., the Workflow Tool node). A shared-workflow editor, or any user creating/updating a workflow via the REST API, Public API, or MCP, can persist a node referencing a credential they do not own. When the workflow is later executed under an identity that holds the credential, the inline sub-workflow resolves the secret and can send it to an attacker-controlled endpoint, resulting in credential exfiltration.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network with a low-privilege account. High risk of data exposure.

Exploit odds

0.4% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

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

Timeline

1. 2026-09-03 13:06 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-10-29 21:17 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Details

Published

2026-09-03 13:06 UTC

Last modified

2026-10-29 21:17 UTC

Exploit probability

0.4% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-863 · Incorrect authorization

Record status

Analyzed

Affected

• n8n < 2.35.4
• n8n < 2.36.2

Attack profile CVSS 4.0 · 7.2

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Attack requirements

Present

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

None

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

None

Availability

None