CVE-2026-24685 is a critical vulnerability affecting OpenProject, an open-source web-based project management software. This vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit the repository diff download endpoint (`/projects/:project_id/repository/diff.diff`) in OpenProject versions prior to 16.6.6 and 17.0.2. By supplying a specially crafted revision value, such as `rev=--output=/tmp/poc.txt`, an attacker can inject command-line options into the git show command executed by OpenProject.
When this command is executed, Git interprets the attacker-controlled revision as a valid option, allowing the attacker to write output to a path of their choosing. This means that any user with the `:browse_repository` permission can create or overwrite files that the OpenProject process user is permitted to access. The written content typically includes git show output, consisting of commit metadata and patches, but overwriting critical application or configuration files can lead to significant data loss and denial of service.
Given the severity of this vulnerability, with a CVSS score of 9.4, organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The vulnerability impacts the integrity and availability of affected systems, highlighting the necessity for urgent remediation measures.
The issue has been addressed and fixed in OpenProject versions 17.0.2 and 16.6.6. Organizations running earlier versions are strongly advised to upgrade as part of their security best practices.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2026-24685 outlines that it affects OpenProject's repository diff download endpoint, specifically allowing arbitrary file write vulnerabilities through crafted command-line injections. The vulnerability spans across several versions: prior to 16.6.6 and 17.0.2.
The CVSS score of 9.4 indicates a critical severity, with the potential for high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability due to the nature of the exploit.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies within the way OpenProject processes user-supplied input at the repository diff endpoint. The attack vector is network-based, with low complexity required for exploitation. Attackers need to possess low privileges, only requiring the `:browse_repository` permission.
No user interaction is necessary for this vulnerability to be exploited. Successful exploitation allows attackers to impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making this a significant risk to organizations utilizing OpenProject.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential data loss due to overwriting critical configuration files, leading to denial of service. The ability to write files to arbitrary locations underlines the necessity for immediate action. The urgency is underscored by the CVSS score of 9.4, warranting immediate patching efforts.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of OpenProject include all versions prior to 16.6.6 and 17.0.2. Organizations should verify their current version and upgrade accordingly.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to OpenProject version 16.6.6 or 17.0.2 where the issue has been patched. If immediate patching is not possible, consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the repository diff endpoint until the upgrade is completed. Regular monitoring and configuration hardening can also help in minimizing exposure.
For organizations seeking comprehensive security assessments, consider engaging in penetration testing to evaluate their security posture.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indications of unauthorized file writes or abnormal command executions through the repository diff endpoint. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected file changes by users with `:browse_repository` permission, should be flagged for review.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The significance of CVE-2026-24685 lies in its demonstration of how command injections can lead to severe vulnerabilities in web applications. As attackers continuously evolve their methods, organizations must stay ahead by implementing robust security practices. The lessons learned from this vulnerability emphasize the importance of regular updates and proactive security assessments.
For ongoing security improvements, organizations are encouraged to explore vulnerability management programs to effectively identify and mitigate risks.
Additionally, understanding the impact of vulnerabilities in various contexts can further enhance organizational resilience against future threats. Engage with penetration testing methodologies to refine security strategies.
Finally, for a broader perspective on security trends, organizations should consider following insights on ransomware targeting trends to stay informed about emerging threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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