CVE-2026-49231 Apache Software Foundation CVE debrief

Who should care

Defenders of Apache APISIX instances, particularly those using versions 3.5.0 through 3.16.0, should be aware of this vulnerability. The attack requires low privileges and can lead to higher privileges on the upstream service.

Technical summary

The CVE-2026-49231 vulnerability is caused by the opa plugin's improper handling of identity headers. An attacker can spoof these headers to gain elevated privileges on the upstream service. The vulnerability affects Apache APISIX versions 3.5.0 through 3.16.0 and is fixed in version 3.17.0. The CVSS vector is CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:P/PR:L/UI:N/VC:N/VI:N/VA:N/SC:L/SI:L/SA:N/E:X/CR:X/IR:X/AR:X/MAV:X/MAC:X/MAT:X/MPR:X/MUI:X/MVC:X/MVI:X/MVA:X/MSC:X/MSI:X/MSA:X/S:X/AU:X/R:X/V:X/RE:X/U:X.

Defensive priority

Low severity, but defenders should still prioritize upgrading to version 3.17.0 to prevent potential privilege escalation.

Recommended defensive actions

• Upgrade Apache APISIX to version 3.17.0
• Review and adjust the opa plugin configuration to prevent spoofing
• Monitor for suspicious activity on the upstream service
• Verify the integrity of identity headers
• Limit exposure by restricting access to the affected versions

Evidence notes

The primary evidence for this CVE comes from the Apache APISIX security advisory and the NVD database. The vulnerability affects Apache APISIX versions 3.5.0 through 3.16.0. Defenders should verify the version of Apache APISIX in use and review the configuration of the opa plugin.

Official resources