CVE-2022-36085
CWE-20Published: September 8, 2022· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
Open Policy Agent (OPA) is an open source, general-purpose policy engine. The Rego compiler provides a (deprecated) `WithUnsafeBuiltins` function, which allows users to provide a set of built-in functions that should be deemed unsafe — and as such rejected — by the compiler if encountered in the policy compilation stage. A bypass of this protection has been found, where the use of the `with` keyword to mock such a built-in function (a feature introduced in OPA v0.40.0), isn’t taken into account by `WithUnsafeBuiltins`. Multiple conditions need to be met in order to create an adverse effect. Version 0.43.1 contains a patch for this issue. As a workaround, avoid using the `WithUnsafeBuiltins` function and use the `capabilities` feature instead.
Risk Analysis
Open Policy Agent (OPA) has a bypass vulnerability in its Rego compiler's unsafe built-in function protection. This could allow for the execution of restricted functions, posing a critical security risk.
No public exploit is known and it is not in the CISA KEV. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable.
Upgrade to OPA version 0.43.1 or use the capabilities feature instead of the deprecated WithUnsafeBuiltins function.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2022-36085 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (12)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-20)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2022-36085 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts