CVE-2026-44794: Authorization Bypass in Nautobot
Platform
python
Component
nautobot
Fixed in
3.1.2
CVE-2026-44794 describes an authorization bypass vulnerability in Nautobot versions up to 3.1.1. This flaw allows unauthorized access to data through improper handling of inter-object references using GenericForeignKey. Successful exploitation could lead to data breaches and compromise network automation workflows. The vulnerability was published on May 13, 2026, and a fix is available in version 3.1.2.
Detect this CVE in your project
Upload your requirements.txt file and we'll tell you instantly if you're affected.
Impact and Attack Scenarios
The vulnerability stems from Nautobot's REST API failing to enforce user view permissions when validating references within GenericForeignKey relationships. An attacker with permission to create or update objects containing these references, but lacking permission to view the referenced objects, can bypass access controls. For instance, a user who can modify ImageAttachment records but lacks permission to view Device records could potentially access sensitive device information. This could expose confidential network configurations, credentials, or other sensitive data. The blast radius extends to any data accessible through these improperly validated references, potentially impacting multiple modules and workflows within Nautobot.
Exploitation Context
The vulnerability's public disclosure date is May 13, 2026. Its severity is rated as medium (CVSS 5.4). There is no indication of this vulnerability being actively exploited in the wild or appearing on KEV/EPSS at the time of writing. Public proof-of-concept exploits are not currently available, but the nature of the authorization bypass makes it likely that such exploits will emerge.
Threat Intelligence
Exploit Status
CVSS Vector
What do these metrics mean?
- Attack Vector
- Network — remotely exploitable over the internet. No physical or local access required. Widest attack surface.
- Attack Complexity
- Low — no special conditions required. Attacker can exploit reliably without depending on rare configurations or timing.
- Privileges Required
- Low — any valid user account is sufficient. Basic authenticated access required.
- User Interaction
- None — attack is automatic and silent. Victim does nothing: no click, no file open.
- Scope
- Unchanged — impact is limited to the vulnerable component itself.
- Confidentiality
- Low — partial or indirect data access. Attacker gains limited information.
- Integrity
- Low — attacker can modify some data with limited scope or impact.
- Availability
- None — no availability impact. Service remains fully operational.
Affected Software
Timeline
- Published
Mitigation and Workarounds
The primary mitigation is to upgrade to Nautobot version 3.1.2 or later, which includes the fix for this authorization bypass. If upgrading immediately is not feasible, consider implementing stricter access control policies within Nautobot to limit the permissions granted to users who create or update objects with GenericForeignKey references. Review and restrict access to sensitive objects referenced by these relationships. While a WAF or proxy cannot directly address this vulnerability, they can be configured to monitor for suspicious API requests related to object creation and updates, potentially detecting exploitation attempts. After upgrading, confirm the fix by attempting to access a protected object through a user account lacking the necessary view permissions; access should be denied.
How to fix
No official patch available. Check for workarounds or monitor for updates.
Frequently asked questions
What is CVE-2026-44794 — Authorization Bypass in Nautobot?
CVE-2026-44794 is a medium severity vulnerability in Nautobot versions up to 3.1.1 that allows unauthorized access to data through improper handling of object references. Attackers can bypass access controls and potentially view sensitive information.
Am I affected by CVE-2026-44794 in Nautobot?
If you are running Nautobot versions 3.1.1 or earlier, you are potentially affected. Assess your usage of GenericForeignKey relationships to determine the scope of the risk.
How do I fix CVE-2026-44794 in Nautobot?
Upgrade to Nautobot version 3.1.2 or later to resolve the vulnerability. Review and tighten access control policies as an interim measure.
Is CVE-2026-44794 being actively exploited?
There is currently no evidence of active exploitation in the wild, but the vulnerability's nature suggests potential for future exploitation.
Where can I find the official Nautobot advisory for CVE-2026-44794?
Refer to the official Nautobot security advisories on their website or GitHub repository for the latest information and updates regarding CVE-2026-44794.
Is your project affected?
Upload your dependency file and we'll tell you instantly if this and other CVEs hit you.
Detect this CVE in your project
Upload your requirements.txt file and we'll tell you instantly if you're affected.
Scan your Python project now — no account
Upload your requirements.txt and get the vulnerability report instantly. No account. Uploading the file is just the start: with an account you get continuous monitoring, Slack/email alerts, multi-project and white-label reports.
Drag & drop your dependency file
composer.lock, package-lock.json, requirements.txt, Gemfile.lock, pubspec.lock, Dockerfile...