Remote Code Execution in IBM Langflow OSS

Executive Summary

IBM Langflow OSS versions 1.0.0 through 1.10.0 have a critical remote code execution flaw in the code validation API endpoint. The POST /api/v1/validate/code endpoint executes user-supplied Python code directly using Python's exec() function without sandboxing, input validation, or privilege restrictions. This allows any authenticated user to run arbitrary system commands with the full privileges of the Langflow server process.

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Detection Guidance

Check for unauthorized access to the POST /api/v1/validate/code endpoint in IBM Langflow logs. Monitor for unexpected system command executions or unusual network traffic from the Langflow server process.

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Impact Analysis

An attacker with authenticated access could exploit this to execute malicious commands on the server, potentially taking full control of the system, stealing data, installing malware, or disrupting services. The impact depends on the server's privileges and network access.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability likely violates compliance requirements for data protection and security, such as GDPR's integrity and confidentiality principles or HIPAA's safeguards for protected health information. Unauthorized code execution could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, or loss of sensitive data, triggering regulatory penalties.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately upgrade to a patched version of IBM Langflow OSS beyond 1.10.0. If upgrading is not possible, restrict access to the /api/v1/validate/code endpoint and disable the code validation API entirely. Implement network segmentation to limit exposure.

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