Vulnerability Description
openssl-encrypt (pip package) before 1.4.9 contains a symlink-following flaw in its verify-usb v2 added-file allowlist scan. The scan enumerated the drive with rglob(), which in CPython does not descend into symlinked directories and treats the symlink as an ordinary directory, while O_NOFOLLOW on the hash side binds only the final path component. An evil-maid attacker with physical access to the removable drive could replace a tool-tree directory with a symlink to a copy containing byte-identical files plus a planted __pycache__/*.pyc file (which CPython loads in preference to recompiling the clean .py). The planted file is never enumerated, added_files stays 0, and verify-usb reports PASSED, resulting in code execution when the victim runs the portable install. Fixed in 1.4.9 (affects both 1.4.x and 1.5.x lines).
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-hw7h-wqf5-6Vendor Advisory
- https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/verify-usb-before-1.4.9-symlink-directory-tThird Party Advisory
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-81690?
CVE-2026-81690 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.3 (HIGH). openssl-encrypt (pip package) before 1.4.9 contains a symlink-following flaw in its verify-usb v2 added-file allowlist scan. The scan enumerated the drive with rglob(), which in CPython does not desce...
How severe is CVE-2026-81690?
CVE-2026-81690 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.3/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-81690?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Jahlives Openssl Encrypt.