Critical Security Update for compat-openssl11: Heap Use-After-Free Vulnerability
Summary
ALSA-2026:44438: Important: compat-openssl11 security update. Affects compat-openssl11 versions < 1:1.1.1k-5.el9_8.4. Fixed in 1:1.1.1k-5.el9_8.4. How to fix ↓
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Background
The compat-openssl11 package is a compatibility layer that provides the OpenSSL 1.1.1 libraries for secure communications between machines. It is crucial for applications that rely on these libraries to ensure secure data transmission. However, this package has been identified with a significant vulnerability that could potentially compromise the security of systems using it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-45447 is a Heap Use-After-Free issue in the OpenSSL PKCS7_verify() function. This flaw allows an attacker to exploit the memory management of the application, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or a denial of service. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory, which can be manipulated to access freed memory regions, posing a serious risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the system.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1:1.1.1k-5.el9_8.4
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update compat-openssl11Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, if updating the package is not immediately feasible, consider isolating the affected application from untrusted networks and limiting its exposure until a patch can be applied. Additionally, review application logs for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
The compat-openssl11 package has been identified with a critical vulnerability that requires immediate attention. Updating to the latest patched version is essential to mitigate risks associated with the Heap Use-After-Free vulnerability. Users are encouraged to monitor their systems and apply the necessary updates promptly.
See every vulnerability recorded for compat-openssl11 →
FAQ
CVE-2026-45447 is a security vulnerability in the compat-openssl11 package that involves a Heap Use-After-Free issue in the PKCS7_verify() function of OpenSSL.
This vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service, compromising the security and stability of systems using the affected OpenSSL libraries.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider isolating the affected application and monitoring for unusual activity until the patch can be applied.
For more details, refer to the CVE page associated with CVE-2026-45447, which provides in-depth information about the vulnerability and its implications.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json. You can also check your application for this vulnerability using the Vulert playground without any signup.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for compat-openssl11.
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