CVE-2026-35413: Directus GraphQL SDL Disclosure Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2026-35413: Directus: GraphQL Schema SDL Disclosure Setting. Affects directus versions < 11.16.1. Fixed in 11.16.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
Directus is an open-source headless CMS that allows users to manage content through a user-friendly interface and API. It provides a flexible and customizable platform for developers to build applications. However, it has a vulnerability related to its GraphQL implementation that can expose sensitive schema information.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises when the configuration option GRAPHQL_INTROSPECTION is set to false, which is intended to block standard GraphQL introspection queries. Despite this setting, the server_specs_graphql resolver on the /graphql/system endpoint still returns an SDL representation of the schema. This oversight allows unauthenticated users and authenticated users at their permitted permission level to access sensitive schema information, such as collection names, field names, types, and relationships, effectively bypassing the intended security measures.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 12.5.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install directus@12.5.0Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
11.16.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install directus@11.16.1Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can restrict access to the /graphql/system endpoint through your server configuration or API gateway, ensuring that only authorized users can access this endpoint until you can apply the patch.
Conclusion
The CVE-2026-35413 vulnerability in Directus exposes sensitive schema information despite the intention to restrict access through configuration. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to secure their applications and prevent unauthorized access.
See every vulnerability recorded for directus →
FAQ
The vulnerability allows unauthorized access to schema information via the SDL endpoint, even when introspection is disabled.
Any Directus user who has configured GRAPHQL_INTROSPECTION=false is potentially affected, as their schema information may be exposed.
Exposing schema information can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and may allow attackers to exploit other vulnerabilities in the application.
You can use Vulert to monitor your application for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time by analyzing your package-lock.json file.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
References
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