CVE-2026-53709: CWE-287: Improper Authentication in IBM mcp-context-forge
Description
CVE-2026-53709 is a critical improper authentication vulnerability in IBM mcp-context-forge prior to version 1.0.2. The issue arises because a known JWT secret key is shipped with the product, allowing remote unauthenticated attackers to forge administrator tokens. These forged tokens grant administrative access without requiring a database account and persist despite password changes, account deletions, or session revocations. This vulnerability enables attackers to disclose, modify, or disrupt the service. The flaw is fixed in version 1.0.2.
CVSS v3.1
Score 9.8critical
Affected software
IBM
mcp-context-forge
pkg:github/ibm/mcp-context-forgeRun on your own infrastructure? Check whether these packages are installed with threat-finder — our free open-source scanner.
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
IBM mcp-context-forge versions before 1.0.2 include a known JWT_SECRET_KEY in configuration files, which is used to verify HS256 tokens. The function verify_jwt_token() accepts tokens signed with this key, and get_current_user() grants platform administrator privileges if the token subject matches PLATFORM_ADMIN_EMAIL and REQUIRE_USER_IN_DB is false. This design flaw allows remote unauthenticated attackers to mint valid administrator tokens without a database account. The forged tokens remain valid across password rotations, account deletions, and session revocations, enabling administrative disclosure, modification, and service disruption. The vulnerability is resolved in version 1.0.2.
Potential Impact
An attacker can gain unauthorized administrative access to the IBM mcp-context-forge platform remotely without authentication. This access allows disclosure of sensitive information, modification of data or configurations, and disruption of service operations. The persistence of forged tokens despite password changes and account deletions increases the risk and potential impact of exploitation.
Mitigation Recommendations
Upgrade IBM mcp-context-forge to version 1.0.2 or later, where this vulnerability is fixed. Until the upgrade is applied, any instance using the default or known JWT_SECRET_KEY and with platform-admin bootstrap enabled remains vulnerable. No other mitigations are specified by the vendor advisory.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- GitHub_M
- Date Reserved
- 2026-06-10T16:43:31.241Z
- Cvss Version
- 3.1
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 6ace44e52cdf04f656782272
Added to database: 10/13/2026, 14:49:09 UTC
Last enriched: 10/13/2026, 15:03:18 UTC
Last updated: 10/13/2026, 15:08:24 UTC
Views: 4
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