PatchTheCVECVE-2021-40494: A Hardcoded JWT Secret Key in metadata.py in AdaptiveScale LXDUI through 2.1.3 allows attackers to gain admin
CVE-2021-40494 is a critical-severity flaw (CVSS 9.8) affecting lxdui. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
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.
Why this priority
- Critical severity
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 9.8 (Critical) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 1.7% (top 23%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-798 |
| Published | 2021-09-03 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2021-40494?
lxdui: upgrade to newer than 2.1.3. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2021-40494 being exploited?
CVE-2021-40494 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2021-40494 affect?
CVE-2021-40494 affects lxdui. Severity is critical (CVSS 9.8). 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.
How urgent is CVE-2021-40494?
Priority 59/100. Critical severity; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action