PatchTheCVECVE-2026-16235: Crypt::Password versions through 0.28 for Perl generate insecure random values for salts. These versions use
CVE-2026-16235 is a critical-severity flaw (CVSS 9.8) affecting affected software. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
Crypt::Password versions through 0.28 for Perl generate insecure random values for salts. These versions use the built-in rand function, which is predictable and unsuitable for cryptography.
Why this priority
- Critical severity
- CISA SSVC: automatable with total technical impact
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 9.8 (Critical) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 0.6% (top 55%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-338 |
| Published | 2026-07-20 |
| Last modified | 2026-10-24 |
Last updated 2026-10-24 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Exact fixes by distribution
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2026-16235?
No fixed release is listed yet. Watch the vendor advisory and apply any mitigation shown on this page.
Is CVE-2026-16235 being exploited?
CVE-2026-16235 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2026-16235 affect?
CVE-2026-16235 affects affected software. Severity is critical (CVSS 9.8). Crypt::Password versions through 0.28 for Perl generate insecure random values for salts. These versions use the built-in rand function, which is predictable and unsuitable for cryptography.
How urgent is CVE-2026-16235?
Priority 54/100. Critical severity; CISA SSVC: automatable with total technical impact; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action