CVE-2021-40494: Hardcoded JWT Secret Key in AdaptiveScale LXDUI

lxdui Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

03/09/2021
No i
Critical
9.8

CVE-2021-40494: A Hardcoded JWT Secret Key in metadata.py in AdaptiveScale LXDUI through 2.1.3 allows attackers to gain admin access to the host system. Affects lxdui versions 1.0.1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

AdaptiveScale LXDUI is a PyPI package that provides a user interface for managing LXD containers. It allows users to interact with the LXD daemon and perform various container management tasks. LXDUI is commonly used in environments where containerization is employed to isolate applications and services. However, a vulnerability has been identified in LXDUI versions up to 2.1.3 that could allow attackers to gain admin access to the host system.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability (CVE-2021-40494) resides in the metadata.py file of AdaptiveScale LXDUI. It involves the presence of a hardcoded JWT (JSON Web Token) secret key. This secret key is used for authentication and authorization purposes within the application. By obtaining this secret key, an attacker can forge valid JWTs and gain administrative access to the host system. This could lead to unauthorized control over the containers and potentially compromise the entire infrastructure.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. However, users can consider implementing additional security measures such as restricting network access to the LXDUI interface, enforcing strong passwords for user accounts, and regularly monitoring system logs for any suspicious activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AdaptiveScale LXDUI versions up to 2.1.3 are vulnerable to CVE-2021-40494, which allows attackers to gain admin access to the host system. To mitigate this vulnerability, users should update to LXDUI version 2.1.4 or later. Additional security measures can also be implemented to enhance the overall security of the system. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

AdaptiveScale LXDUI is a PyPI package that provides a user interface for managing LXD containers. It allows users to interact with the LXD daemon and perform various container management tasks.

The vulnerability allows attackers to gain admin access to the host system, potentially compromising the entire infrastructure and giving unauthorized control over the containers.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to update AdaptiveScale LXDUI to version 2.1.4 or later, which includes a patch that removes the hardcoded JWT secret key and implements a more secure approach for generating and managing JWTs.

While there is no specific workaround provided, users can consider implementing additional security measures such as restricting network access to the LXDUI interface, enforcing strong passwords for user accounts, and regularly monitoring system logs for any suspicious activities.

There are alternative LXDUI packages available that can be used as a replacement for AdaptiveScale LXDUI. It is recommended to evaluate and choose a package that has a good track record of security and regular updates.

References

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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