Apache APISIX: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an LDAP Query
CVE-2026-75020 is a high-severity improper neutralization of special elements used in an LDAP query vulnerability in Apache APISIX from Apache, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.1 out of 10. It can be exploited remotely over the network by an attacker with a low-privileged account, without any action from a user. Affected Apache APISIX versions: 2.11.0 through 3.17.0. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.55% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Update Apisix to 3.18.0 or a later version.
- Read the advisory on lists.apache.org for workarounds and exact fixed builds.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apache | Apache APISIX | 2.11.0 through 3.17.0 | Not stated |
| Apache | Apisix | 2.11.0 up to, but not including, 3.18.0 | 3.18.0 |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- NetworkCan be exploited remotely over a network, including the internet.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- LowA basic user account is enough.
- User interaction
- NoneNo action by a victim is required.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- NoneAvailability is not affected.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N. Scored by NVD.
| Scoring system | Score | Severity | Scored by |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVSS 4.0 | 7.0 | High | CNA (apache.org) |
| CVSS 3.1 | 8.1 | High | NVD |
Official description
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an LDAP Query ('LDAP Injection') vulnerability in Apache APISIX. A caller who holds valid credentials for one entry in the LDAP directory can authenticate through APISIX as a consumer mapped to a different entry, one the plugin's configured scope was meant to keep out of reach. This issue affects Apache APISIX: from 2.11.0 through 3.17.0. Users are recommended to upgrade to version 3.18.0, which fixes the issue.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an LDAP Query
The product constructs all or part of an LDAP query using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended LDAP query when it is sent to a downstream component.
More Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an LDAP Query vulnerabilities (CWE-90)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: partial).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Advisories
Third-party and government advisories
- openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2026/08/26/14Mailing List, Third Party Advisory
Other vulnerabilities in Apache APISIX
- 7.0 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 8.2 High severity
- 7.5 High severity
- 7.5 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
Recent Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an LDAP Query vulnerabilities
- 7.5 High severity
- 7.5 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 8.2 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 9.1 Critical severity
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