CVE-2021-29451: Missing validation of JWT signature in ManyDesigns/Portofino
Summary
CVE-2021-29451: Missing validation of JWT signature in ManyDesigns/Portofino. Affects com.manydesigns:portofino-dispatcher versions >= 5.0.0, < 5.2.1. Fixed in 5.2.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
ManyDesigns/Portofino is an open-source framework for building web applications. It provides a set of tools and features to simplify the development process. The framework includes functionality for handling JSON Web Tokens (JWTs), which are used for authentication and authorization. However, prior to version 5.2.1, ManyDesigns/Portofino did not properly verify the signature of JWTs, allowing for the forging of valid tokens.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in ManyDesigns/Portofino allows an attacker to create a valid JWT without proper verification of the signature. This means that an attacker can impersonate any user or gain unauthorized access to protected resources. The impact of this vulnerability is critical, as it undermines the security of the authentication and authorization mechanisms in the application. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.1, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 5.3.4 as of 22 Oct 2026
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
5.2.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, developers can implement additional signature verification logic in their application code. This can involve using a JWT library or implementing custom signature verification methods. However, it is strongly advised to apply the official patch as soon as it becomes available.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in ManyDesigns/Portofino allows for the forging of valid JWTs, compromising the security of authentication and authorization mechanisms. It is crucial to update the framework to the patched version (5.2.1 or later) to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for com.manydesigns:portofino-dispatcher →
FAQ
ManyDesigns/Portofino is an open-source framework for building web applications. It provides a set of tools and features to simplify the development process.
A JSON Web Token (JWT) is a compact, URL-safe means of representing claims to be transferred between two parties. It is commonly used for authentication and authorization purposes.
The vulnerability allows for the forging of valid JWTs, enabling an attacker to impersonate any user or gain unauthorized access to protected resources.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.1, indicating a high severity level.
To fix the vulnerability, it is recommended to update ManyDesigns/Portofino to version 5.2.1 or any subsequent version that includes the fix.
