CVE-2026-74871

MEDIUMCVSS 5.5/10EPSS 0.09%

Last modified

CVE-2026-74871 is a medium-severity vulnerability rated 5.5/10 on the CVSS scale. openssl_encrypt versions before 1.4.6 contain a key derivation flaw in sequential XOR composition mode where the last stage cancels out during key generation. When configured with a single KDF and no prior hashing stage, attackers can bypass memory-hard key derivation and perform offline password cracking at SHA-256 speed instead of the configured KDF cost.. EPSS estimates a 0.09% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days.

Description

openssl_encrypt versions before 1.4.6 contain a key derivation flaw in sequential XOR composition mode where the last stage cancels out during key generation. When configured with a single KDF and no prior hashing stage, attackers can bypass memory-hard key derivation and perform offline password cracking at SHA-256 speed instead of the configured KDF cost.

Metrics

Weakness Enumeration

Affected Software

VendorProductVersions
JahlivesOpenssl Encrypt< 1.4.6

References

Timeline

Published
Last Modified
Status
Analyzed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2026-74871?
openssl_encrypt versions before 1.4.6 contain a key derivation flaw in sequential XOR composition mode where the last stage cancels out during key generation. When configured with a single KDF and no prior hashing stage, attackers can bypass memory-hard key derivation and perform offline password cracking at SHA-256 speed instead of the configured KDF cost.
How severe is CVE-2026-74871?
CVE-2026-74871 has a CVSS score of 5.5/10 (MEDIUM severity). The EPSS model estimates a 0.09% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
How do I fix CVE-2026-74871?
Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.

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Source: NVD / NIST