Fix Audiobookshelf OidcAuth Error: Invalid User Info

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Troubleshooting 'Invalid Userinfo' Error in Audiobookshelf with Authentik

Hey guys! Ever wrestled with a tech issue that just wouldn't budge? Today, we're diving deep into a tricky problem some Audiobookshelf users have encountered when using Authentik for authentication. Specifically, we're tackling the dreaded [OidcAuth] openid callback error: Invalid userinfo or already linked error. If you're scratching your head over this one, you're in the right place. Let's break it down and get you back to enjoying your audiobooks!

Understanding the OidcAuth Error

So, what exactly does this error mean? The Invalid userinfo or already linked error typically pops up when Audiobookshelf (ABS) can't properly verify the user information received from Authentik during the OpenID Connect (OIDC) callback process. This can happen for a few reasons, such as mismatched user data, issues with email verification, or problems with account linking. It's like the bouncer at the club not recognizing your ID – frustrating, right?

To really nail this, we need to understand that OIDC is a system that lets applications (like Audiobookshelf) verify who you are using another service (like Authentik). When you try to log in, Audiobookshelf sends you over to Authentik to confirm your identity. Authentik then sends back some info about you. If Audiobookshelf doesn't like what it sees—maybe the info is missing, or it thinks you're already linked to another account—it throws this error.

This error is particularly pesky because it can stem from a variety of underlying issues, ranging from configuration hiccups to data inconsistencies between Authentik and Audiobookshelf. It's crucial to systematically investigate each potential cause to pinpoint the root of the problem and implement an effective solution. For instance, the email address provided by Authentik might not be verified, or there could be a clash in user identifiers that prevents Audiobookshelf from correctly associating the user with their account. Each of these scenarios requires a slightly different troubleshooting approach, making a thorough examination essential.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

When this error strikes, don't panic! There are several things you can check right off the bat. Here’s a rundown of the initial troubleshooting steps to get you started:

  1. Verify User Creation and Impersonation: Ensure that the user is properly created in Authentik. Try impersonating the user in Authentik and then logging into Audiobookshelf in incognito mode. This helps isolate whether the issue is with the user account itself or the authentication process.
  2. Check Existing User Matching: If you've already created the user in Audiobookshelf, try matching the account by logging in through Authentik. If this fails, it might indicate a mismatch in user identifiers or email verification issues.
  3. Temporary Password Login: Temporarily enable passwords in Audiobookshelf and log in with a temporary password to validate the account. If this works, try logging in using impersonation mode again to see if the issue persists.
  4. Working Account Impersonation: Impersonate another user with a working account to see if the issue is specific to the user or a broader authentication problem.
  5. Refresh and Restart: Refresh the auto-populated data for the ABS OpenID Connect Authentication and restart the server. This can help resolve any temporary glitches in the configuration.

These initial steps are like the first responders on the scene, assessing the situation and providing immediate relief. They help narrow down the possible causes and pave the way for more targeted solutions. For example, if impersonating a working account succeeds, it suggests the problem is likely isolated to the specific user accounts encountering the error. Conversely, if none of these steps work, it could point to a more systemic issue with the OIDC configuration or the integration between Authentik and Audiobookshelf.

Diving Deeper: Configuration and Logs

If the basic steps don't do the trick, it's time to dig into the configuration and logs. This is where we really put on our detective hats and start looking for clues.

Configuration Review

First, double-check your Audiobookshelf and Authentik configurations. Make sure the settings are correctly aligned. Here’s what you should be looking at:

  • OpenID Connect Authentication Settings: In Audiobookshelf, verify the OpenID Connect Authentication settings. This includes the Authorize URL, Token URL, Userinfo URL, JWKS URL, and Logout URL. Ensure these URLs match the corresponding endpoints in your Authentik setup.
  • Client ID and Secret: Confirm that the Client ID and Client Secret in Audiobookshelf match the credentials from your Authentik application.
  • Signing Algorithm: Verify that the signing algorithm (e.g., RS256) is correctly configured in Audiobookshelf.
  • Match Existing Users By: Check the setting for matching existing users. If it's set to “Match by email,” ensure that the email addresses in both systems are consistent and verified.
  • Auto-launch and Auto-Register: Ensure these settings are configured according to your desired behavior. Auto-Register should be enabled if you want users to be automatically created in Audiobookshelf upon their first login.
  • Redirect URIs in Authentik: In Authentik, make sure the Redirect URIs are correctly set. This should include the callback URL for Audiobookshelf (e.g., https://abs.mydomain.tld/audiobookshelf/auth/openid/callback) and any mobile redirect URLs.

Think of these settings as the gears in a machine. If one gear is out of alignment, the whole system can grind to a halt. Double-checking these configurations ensures that all the pieces are in their proper place and communicating effectively.

Log Analysis

Next up, let's crack open those logs! Logs are like a black box recorder for your applications, capturing important information about what’s happening under the hood. In this case, the logs provide crucial insights into the authentication process and can help pinpoint where things are going wrong.

Examine the Audiobookshelf logs for any error messages or warnings related to the OidcAuth process. Key things to look for include:

  • Userinfo Details: Check the userinfo payload in the logs. This payload contains the user information sent by Authentik to Audiobookshelf. Verify that the necessary user attributes (e.g., email, sub) are present and correctly formatted.
  • Email Verification Status: Look for warnings related to email verification. The logs might indicate if an email address is not verified, which can prevent user creation or matching.
  • Error Messages: Pay close attention to any error messages, such as Invalid userinfo or already linked or No data in openid callback - Unauthorized. These messages provide direct clues about the nature of the issue.

The logs are your best friend when troubleshooting complex issues like this. They tell the story of what happened, step by step, and can often reveal the exact moment things went awry. By carefully analyzing the log entries, you can identify patterns, spot discrepancies, and ultimately track down the root cause of the problem.

Potential Causes and Solutions

Okay, we've done our detective work. Now, let's look at some common culprits behind this error and how to fix them.

1. Email Verification Issues

One of the most frequent causes is unverified email addresses. If the user's email isn't verified in Authentik, Audiobookshelf might refuse to create or match the account.

Solution:

  • Verify Email in Authentik: Ensure that users verify their email addresses in Authentik. This usually involves clicking a verification link sent to their email inbox.
  • Configure Email Verification in Authentik: Check your Authentik settings to ensure email verification is properly configured and enabled.

2. Mismatched User Identifiers

Another common issue is a mismatch between user identifiers. Audiobookshelf uses certain attributes (like email or a unique identifier) to match users. If these attributes don't align between Authentik and Audiobookshelf, you'll run into trouble.

Solution:

  • Check “Match Existing Users By” Setting: In Audiobookshelf, verify the “Match existing users by” setting. If it's set to “Match by email,” ensure the email addresses in both systems are identical.
  • Review User Attributes: Examine the userinfo payload in the logs to confirm that the expected user attributes are being sent by Authentik.

3. Incorrect Redirect URIs

Incorrect or missing Redirect URIs in Authentik can also cause authentication failures. The Redirect URIs tell Authentik where to send the user back after authentication.

Solution:

  • Verify Redirect URIs in Authentik: Ensure that the Redirect URIs in your Authentik application settings match the callback URLs in Audiobookshelf (e.g., https://abs.mydomain.tld/audiobookshelf/auth/openid/callback).

4. Configuration Errors

Sometimes, the issue boils down to simple configuration errors, such as incorrect URLs or mismatched credentials.

Solution:

  • Double-Check URLs: Verify all URLs (Authorize URL, Token URL, Userinfo URL, JWKS URL) in Audiobookshelf’s OpenID Connect settings.
  • Confirm Credentials: Ensure the Client ID and Client Secret in Audiobookshelf match the credentials in Authentik.

5. Pre-existing User Linking Issues

It’s possible the user account in Audiobookshelf is already linked to a different identity provider or has some conflicting data that prevents a new link from being established.

Solution:

  • Check for Duplicate Users: Verify there are no duplicate user accounts in Audiobookshelf with the same email address or username.
  • Review Linked Accounts: If Audiobookshelf supports linking multiple authentication methods, check if the user's account is already linked to another provider.

6. Authentik and Audiobookshelf Version Compatibility

In rare cases, compatibility issues between versions of Authentik and Audiobookshelf can lead to authentication problems.

Solution:

  • Check Compatibility: Review the documentation for both Authentik and Audiobookshelf to ensure the versions you’re using are compatible.
  • Consider Upgrading: If necessary, consider upgrading to the latest stable versions of both applications.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Troubleshooting authentication issues can feel like navigating a maze, but with a systematic approach, you can find your way out. Remember, the key is to break the problem down into smaller, manageable steps. Start with the basics, dive into the logs, and methodically check each potential cause.

Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

  • Test in Incognito Mode: Use incognito mode in your browser to avoid caching issues that might interfere with the authentication process.
  • Clear Browser Cache: If you’re still experiencing issues, try clearing your browser cache and cookies.
  • Consult Documentation and Community: Don’t hesitate to consult the official documentation for Authentik and Audiobookshelf. Online forums and community groups can also be valuable resources for troubleshooting and finding solutions.

By following these steps and staying persistent, you'll be able to conquer the Invalid userinfo or already linked error and get back to enjoying your audiobooks. Happy listening, everyone!