CVE-2026-27577: n8n Workflow Sandbox — Authenticated Command Execution Risk (July 2026)

CVE-2026-27577 — n8n Workflow Sandbox

CVE-2026-27577 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting n8n automation servers prior to versions 2.31.5 and 2.32.1. The flaw allows any authenticated workflow editor to escape the intended sandbox and execute arbitrary operating system commands as the n8n process. No evidence of active exploitation has been reported as of July 22, 2026, but the risk profile is critical due to the sensitive data and integrations typical in n8n deployments.

Attack Vector

Attackers require valid workflow editor credentials on an affected n8n instance. By crafting or modifying a workflow, they can trigger code paths that bypass the sandbox, resulting in direct OS command execution. This grants access to the underlying server environment, including the ability to read or exfiltrate encryption keys, stored credentials, and data accessible to the n8n process. No external IOCs are currently published, but unusual workflow modifications or unexpected process spawns from the n8n service should be investigated.

Who Is at Risk

All organizations running n8n versions prior to 2.31.5 or 2.32.1 are vulnerable, regardless of deployment method (self-hosted, cloud, or on-premise). Any environment where multiple users have workflow editing rights is at heightened risk, especially if n8n is integrated with sensitive internal systems or databases. n8n confirmed and patched the issue on July 22, 2026.

Patch & Mitigate

• Patch: Upgrade immediately to n8n version 2.31.5 or 2.32.1. Delays increase risk of privilege escalation and data breach.
• Workaround: Restrict workflow editor permissions to trusted users only. Consider network segmentation to limit n8n server exposure.
• Detect: Review audit logs for unexpected workflow changes, creation of suspicious nodes, or anomalous process execution by the n8n service user. Monitor for unusual outbound connections from the n8n host.

MITRE ATT&CK

• TA0001 — Initial Access: Attackers must obtain valid workflow editor credentials to exploit this vulnerability.
• TA0008 — Lateral Movement: OS command execution enables pivoting to other internal systems reachable from the n8n host.
• TA0009 — Collection: Attackers can access and exfiltrate sensitive credentials, keys, and database contents via compromised workflows.

Source: https://thehackernews.com/2026/07/n8n-sandbox-escape-lets-workflow.html