Vulnerability Description
openssl_encrypt versions before 1.4.9 derive the remote-pepper wrap key using unsalted HKDF-SHA256 or bare SHA-256 of the password, allowing identical keys across all users and files. Attackers with access to wrapped pepper blobs can precompute a single dictionary table and perform fleet-wide offline password guessing at hardware speed to recover user passwords.
CVSS Score
HIGH
Affected Products
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Jahlives | Openssl Encrypt | < 1.4.9 |
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://github.com/jahlives/openssl_encrypt/security/advisories/GHSA-3v63-778v-3Vendor Advisory
- https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/openssl-encrypt-before-1.4.9-weak-pepper-keThird Party Advisory
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-81689?
CVE-2026-81689 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.5 (HIGH). openssl_encrypt versions before 1.4.9 derive the remote-pepper wrap key using unsalted HKDF-SHA256 or bare SHA-256 of the password, allowing identical keys across all users and files. Attackers with a...
How severe is CVE-2026-81689?
CVE-2026-81689 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.5/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-81689?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Jahlives Openssl Encrypt.