Vulnerability Description
pam_usb provides hardware authentication for Linux using ordinary removable media. In versions prior to 0.9.2, when updating a one-time pad file, a temporary file is created using open() without the O_EXCL flag. Without O_EXCL, the create operation is not atomic: two concurrent processes racing to update the same pad may both succeed in opening the file, with the second write silently overwriting the first. The one-time pad is the core replay-prevention mechanism of pam_usb. A successful race could result in the stored pad value diverging from what either process expected, potentially causing authentication failures or, in a precisely timed attack, creating a window for pad reuse. This issue has been fixed in version 0.9.2.
CVSS Score
MEDIUM
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://github.com/mcdope/pam_usb/releases/tag/0.9.2
- https://github.com/mcdope/pam_usb/security/advisories/GHSA-hxh6-9574-5vp6
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-48982?
CVE-2026-48982 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 5.8 (MEDIUM). pam_usb provides hardware authentication for Linux using ordinary removable media. In versions prior to 0.9.2, when updating a one-time pad file, a temporary file is created using open() without the O...
How severe is CVE-2026-48982?
CVE-2026-48982 has been rated MEDIUM with a CVSS base score of 5.8/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-48982?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Review vendor security bulletins for remediation guidance.