Moderate Vulnerability in OpenSSH Packages: Brute-Force Attack Risk
Summary
ALSA-2026:73955: Moderate: openssh security update. Affects openssh versions < 9.9p1-12.el9_8.alma.1. Fixed in 9.9p1-12.el9_8.alma.1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
OpenSSH is a widely used implementation of the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol, which provides secure communication over unsecured networks. It is essential for remote server management and secure file transfers. The affected packages include openssh, openssh-askpass, openssh-clients, openssh-keycat, openssh-server, and pam_ssh_agent_auth, all of which are integral to the functionality and security of SSH communications in AlmaLinux 9.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-60001 allows attackers to perform brute-force attacks due to insufficient authentication delay in OpenSSH. This flaw can lead to unauthorized access to systems, as attackers can attempt multiple password combinations in a short period without facing adequate delays, increasing the risk of successful exploitation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
9.9p1-12.el9_8.alma.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update opensshTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can implement rate limiting on authentication attempts or configure fail2ban to block IP addresses after a certain number of failed login attempts. This can help mitigate the risk of brute-force attacks until the packages are updated.
Conclusion
The OpenSSH vulnerability CVE-2026-60001 poses a moderate risk due to insufficient authentication delay, allowing brute-force attacks. It is crucial to update the affected packages to their patched versions to safeguard your systems. Implementing temporary workarounds can help mitigate risks until updates are applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for openssh →
FAQ
The impact includes the potential for unauthorized access to systems due to brute-force attacks, which can compromise sensitive data and system integrity.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
The affected packages include openssh, openssh-askpass, openssh-clients, openssh-keycat, openssh-server, and pam_ssh_agent_auth in AlmaLinux 9.
Yes, implementing rate limiting on authentication attempts or using tools like fail2ban can help mitigate the risk of brute-force attacks.
It is recommended to regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to ensure your system is protected against known vulnerabilities.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for openssh.
