CVE-2026-9638: Crypt::PBKDF2 versions before 0.261630 for Perl generate insecure random values for salts

Severity: high (CVSS 7.5 v3.1)
Exploited in the wild: not listed in CISA KEV
EPSS: 0.3% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days
Public exploit or detection template: none known
Published: 2026-06-12 · updated 2026-10-26
Weakness: CWE-338

Description

Crypt::PBKDF2 versions before 0.261630 for Perl generate insecure random values for salts. These versions use the built-in rand function, which is predictable and unsuitable for cryptography.

Affected products

ARODLAND Crypt::PBKDF2: before 0.261630 — fixed in 0.261630

How to fix

Upgrade to a fixed version: ARODLAND Crypt::PBKDF2 0.261630. Check the vendor advisory for mitigations.

References

https://metacpan.org/dist/Crypt-PBKDF2/source/lib/Crypt/PBKDF2.pm#L86-93
https://metacpan.org/release/ARODLAND/Crypt-PBKDF2-0.261630/changes
http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2026/06/12/4

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