CVE-2023-27481

Extract password hashes through export querying in directus

Description

Directus is a real-time API and App dashboard for managing SQL database content. In versions prior to 9.16.0 users with read access to the `password` field in `directus_users` can extract the argon2 password hashes by brute forcing the export functionality combined with a `_starts_with` filter. This allows the user to enumerate the password hashes. Accounts cannot be taken over unless the hashes can be reversed which is unlikely with current hardware. This problem has been patched by preventing any hashed/concealed field to be filtered against with the `_starts_with` or other string operator in version 9.16.0. Users are advised to upgrade. Users unable to upgrade may mitigate this issue by ensuring that no user has `read` access to the `password` field in `directus_users`.

Category

4.3
CVSS
Severity: Medium
CVSS 3.1 •
EPSS 0.21%
Vendor Advisory github.com Vendor Advisory github.com Vendor Advisory github.com
Affected: directus directus
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Link Tags
https://github.com/directus/directus/security/advisories/GHSA-m5q3-8wgf-x8xf vendor advisory
https://github.com/directus/directus/pull/14829 patch vendor advisory
https://github.com/directus/directus/pull/15010 patch vendor advisory

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2023-27481?
CVE-2023-27481 has been scored as a medium severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2023-27481?
To fix CVE-2023-27481, make sure you are using an up-to-date version of the affected component(s) by checking the vendor release notes. As for now, there are no other specific guidelines available.
Is CVE-2023-27481 being actively exploited in the wild?
As for now, there are no information to confirm that CVE-2023-27481 is being actively exploited. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~0% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2023-27481?
CVE-2023-27481 affects directus directus.
This platform uses data from the NIST NVD, MITRE CVE, MITRE CWE, First.org and CISA KEV but is not endorsed or certified by these entities. CVE is a registred trademark of the MITRE Corporation and the authoritative source of CVE content is MITRE's CVE web site. CWE is a registred trademark of the MITRE Corporation and the authoritative source of CWE content is MITRE's CWE web site.
© 2025 Under My Watch. All Rights Reserved.