OpenSSH: OpenSSH denial of service (CVE-2025-26466) #shorts
Summary
In today's podcast, we delve into the security flaw identified as CVE-2025-26466. This vulnerability affects the widely used OpenSSH package and could potentially lead to a Denial of Service or DoS attack. Discovered by Qualys TRU, CVE-2025-26466, along with CVE-2025-26465, highlights critical security risks in both client and server implementations, underscoring the necessity for proactive vulnerability management.
Product details
The products affected by this vulnerability primarily include the OpenSSH package, specifically versions from 9.5p1 up to and including 9.9p1. Additionally, Red Hat Enterprise Linux versions 6 through 9 and the Red Hat OpenShift Container Platform 4 are marked as vulnerable to this flaw. The vulnerability is notably concerning due to its impact on systems using these widely deployed platforms.
Vulnerability type summary
CVE-2025-26466 is classified as a vulnerability due to uncontrolled resource consumption. When exploited, it allows an attacker to consume system memory by continuously sending ping packets to the SSH server. This can prevent legitimate users from accessing the service, effectively leading to a Denial of Service attack.
Details of the vulnerability
The issue stems from how OpenSSH handles incoming ping packets. When a malicious client floods the server with ping packets, each packet is allocated to a memory buffer and stored in a queue. These packets are retained until the server and client completes a key exchange, which can lead to a memory pile-up. This continuous packet inflow can exhaust system memory resources, making the server unresponsive and allowing an attacker to execute a DoS attack.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CVE-2025-26466 serves as a stark reminder of the potential security threats facing modern IT infrastructures. Organizations using vulnerable versions of OpenSSH, especially on Red Hat platforms, should take immediate action to mitigate this risk by applying necessary updates and patches. Staying informed and proactive in security measures is crucial to safeguarding systems against such emerging threats.
Watch the full video on YouTube: CVE-2025-26466
Remediation and exploitation details
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