CVE-2026-27497: n8n Remote Code Execution via Merge Node
Summary
CVE-2026-27497: n8n has Potential Remote Code Execution via Merge Node. Affects n8n across 3 version ranges.
< 1.123.22
>= 2.0.0, < 2.9.3
>= 2.10.0, < 2.10.1
Fixed in 1.123.22, 2.9.3 or 2.10.1, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
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Background
n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool that allows users to connect various applications and services to automate tasks. It provides a user-friendly interface for creating workflows that can integrate with APIs, databases, and other services. However, due to a vulnerability in the Merge node's SQL query mode, authenticated users with workflow creation or modification permissions can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the n8n server.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the Merge node's SQL query mode, which allows an authenticated user to execute arbitrary code and write files on the n8n server. This could lead to severe consequences, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, system compromise, and potential disruption of services. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 (SQL Injection) and CWE-94 (Code Injection), indicating its critical nature and the potential for exploitation.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.44.6 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install n8n@2.44.6Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 1.123.221.123.22npm install n8n@1.123.22 -
>= 2.0.0, < 2.9.32.9.3npm install n8n@2.9.3 -
>= 2.10.0, < 2.10.12.10.1npm install n8n@2.10.1
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate upgrading is not feasible, consider implementing the following workarounds:
- Limit workflow creation and editing permissions to fully trusted users only.
- Disable the Merge node by adding the following line to your environment variables: NODES_EXCLUDE=n8n-nodes-base.merge.
Conclusion
The n8n vulnerability (CVE-2026-27497) poses a significant risk due to the potential for remote code execution through the Merge node. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to the patched versions to mitigate this risk. If immediate upgrades are not possible, implementing the suggested workarounds can provide temporary relief.
See every vulnerability recorded for n8n →
FAQ
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.9, indicating a critical level of severity.
Any authenticated user with permissions to create or modify workflows in n8n is potentially affected.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to remote code execution, unauthorized access to sensitive data, and disruption of services.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If you cannot upgrade, limit permissions for workflow creation and editing to trusted users and disable the Merge node as a temporary measure.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for n8n.
