CVE-2026-40934: jupyter-server authentication cookies remain valid after password reset due to static cookie secret

Published May 5, 2026
·
Updated

## Summary A persistent cookie secret vulnerability allows authenticated users to maintain indefinite access even after password changes. The cookie secret used to sign authentication cookies is stored in a permanent file (`~/.local/share/jupyter/runtime/jupyter_cookie_secret`) that is never automatically rotated or cleared, allowing stolen or compromised cookies to remain valid indefinitely regardless of password resets. ## PoC - Start a Jupyter server with password authentication: `jupyter server password`, `jupyter server` - Log in with the password and capture the authentication cookie (e.g., just login with a browser). - Change the password to revoke access: `jupyter server password` - Restart the server - Use the old stolen cookie => remains valid and provides full authenticated access. ## Impact - All jupyter-server deployments using password authentication where security incidents may occur - Multi-user systems where one user's compromised session should be revocable by administrators - Shared or public-facing Jupyter servers where credential rotation is a security requirement - Any deployment where password changes are expected to revoke existing sessions ## Patches Jupyter Server 2.18+ ## Workaround ```bash rm ~/.local/share/jupyter/runtime/jupyter_cookie_secret # Then restart the server ```

Affected Software

2 affected componentsFixes available
pip/jupyter-server<=2.17.0
2.18.0
jupyter Jupyter Server<2.18.0

Event History

May 5, 2026
Advisory Published
via GitHub·05:03 PM
Data Sourced
via GitHub·05:03 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
CVE Published
via MITRE·09:31 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·09:31 PM
DescriptionWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·10:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
Free Weekly Intel

Don't miss critical vulnerabilities

Join thousands of security professionals who receive our weekly digest of trending CVEs, zero-days, and exploited vulnerabilities.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-40934?

CVE-2026-40934 is considered a high-severity vulnerability due to its potential for enabling unauthorized persistent access to the application.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-40934?

To fix CVE-2026-40934, upgrade to jupyter-server version 2.18.0 or later immediately.

3

What causes CVE-2026-40934?

CVE-2026-40934 is caused by the persistent storage of the cookie secret in a file that is not updated upon password changes.

4

Who is affected by CVE-2026-40934?

Users of jupyter-server versions up to and including 2.17.0 are affected by CVE-2026-40934.

5

What are the potential consequences of CVE-2026-40934?

The consequences of CVE-2026-40934 include the risk of authenticated users retaining access indefinitely, potentially compromising sensitive data.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203