Critical Vulnerability in PHP OpenSSL Extension: Denial of Service Risk
Summary
ALSA-2026:47749: Low: php:8.2 security, bug fix, and enhancement update. Affects apcu-panel versions < 5.1.23-1.module_el8.10.0+3796+30ed3ef7. Fixed in 5.1.23-1.module_el8.10.0+3796+30ed3ef7. How to fix ↓
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Background
PHP is a widely-used open-source scripting language that is especially suited for web development. It is embedded within HTML and is commonly used in conjunction with web servers like Apache. The PHP OpenSSL extension provides support for secure communication over networks using the SSL and TLS protocols. However, vulnerabilities in this extension can lead to severe security issues, including Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, which can disrupt service availability and compromise system integrity.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-14355 is a buffer allocation flaw in the AES-WRAP-PAD function of the PHP OpenSSL extension. This flaw can be exploited to cause a Denial of Service, where an attacker can manipulate the buffer allocation process, leading to unexpected behavior or crashes in the PHP application. The ramifications of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for web applications that rely on PHP for processing secure transactions or handling sensitive data.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
5.1.23-1.module_el8.10.0+3796+30ed3ef7
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update apcu-panelTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider disabling the PHP OpenSSL extension if it is not critical for your application. This can be done by commenting out the extension in the php.ini configuration file:
;extension=openssl
However, this is not a recommended long-term solution, as it may compromise the security of your application.
Conclusion
The vulnerability CVE-2026-14355 in the PHP OpenSSL extension poses a significant risk of Denial of Service attacks. It is crucial for developers and system administrators to update their PHP installations to the patched version to mitigate this risk. Regular monitoring and vulnerability assessment using tools like Vulert can help maintain the security of applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2026-14355 is a vulnerability in the PHP OpenSSL extension that can lead to a Denial of Service due to a buffer allocation flaw.
You can check if your application is affected by using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner, which analyzes your manifest file for vulnerabilities.
Failing to address this vulnerability can lead to service disruptions, potential data breaches, and loss of user trust due to the Denial of Service attacks.
Yes, Vulert offers a service that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider implementing a temporary workaround by disabling the OpenSSL extension, but plan to update as soon as feasible.
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