Description

An improper authorization vulnerability has been identified in Apache Kafka. The implementation of the CONSUMER_GROUP_DESCRIBE (69) API validates the DESCRIBE operation on the GROUP resource instead of the READ operation that documented in the official kafka documentation and the KIP-848. This discrepancy can result in misconfigured Access Control Lists (ACLs) and unintended security postures, like granting READ permission to users who should not be able to join/sync groups, or allowing users without READ permission (but with DESCRIBE permission) to access sensitive group metadata. The correct permission for CONSUMER_GROUP_DESCRIBE API is DESCRIBE GROUP so the current implementation is correct. However, the kafka documentation as well as the KIP-848 will be updated to reflect the correct permission. We advise the Kafka users to review existing group ACLs to ensure the principle of least privilege.

Weaknesses 1

Affected Products 1

References 2

• openwall.com http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2026/06/02/5
  Mailing ListThird Party Advisory
• kafka.apache.org https://kafka.apache.org/cve-list
  Vendor Advisory

Remediation