Tekton Pipelines Git Resolver Leaks API Tokens
The National Vulnerability Database (NVD) has disclosed a critical vulnerability, CVE-2026-40161, impacting the Tekton Pipelines project. Versions from 1.0.0 to 1.10.0 contain a flaw in the git resolver when operating in API mode. Specifically, if a user omits the token parameter while configuring the serverURL, the system-configured Git API token (such as a GitHub PAT or GitLab token) is sent to that user-controlled serverURL.
This vulnerability allows a tenant with TaskRun or PipelineRun creation permissions to exfiltrate these sensitive API tokens. By manipulating the serverURL to point to an attacker-controlled endpoint, they can effectively steal credentials used for CI/CD operations. The NVD assigned this a CVSS score of 7.7 (HIGH), highlighting the significant risk of data exposure and potential downstream compromises.
Defenders must prioritize patching or upgrading Tekton Pipelines installations beyond version 1.10.0. For environments that cannot be immediately updated, review Git token configurations and ensure that only trusted serverURL values are permitted. Auditing Git token usage and access logs can help detect any unauthorized exfiltration attempts.
What This Means For You
- If your organization uses Tekton Pipelines (versions 1.0.0-1.10.0), immediately review your CI/CD configurations. Ensure that Git API tokens are not being exposed via a user-controlled `serverURL` and prioritize upgrading to a patched version to prevent token exfiltration.
Related ATT&CK Techniques
🛡️ Detection Rules
3 rules · 6 SIEM formats3 detection rules auto-generated for this incident, mapped to MITRE ATT&CK. Sigma YAML is free — export to any SIEM format via the Intel Bot.
Tekton Git Resolver API Token Exfiltration via ServerURL - CVE-2026-40161
Indicators of Compromise
| ID | Type | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| CVE-2026-40161 | Information Disclosure | Tekton Pipelines git resolver in API mode |
| CVE-2026-40161 | Information Disclosure | Tekton Pipelines versions 1.0.0 to 1.10.0 |
| CVE-2026-40161 | Information Disclosure | Exfiltration of Git API token (GitHub PAT, GitLab token) via user-controlled serverURL |
Source & Attribution
| Source Platform | NVD |
| Channel | National Vulnerability Database |
| Published | April 21, 2026 at 20:16 UTC |
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