SmythOS sre Authentication Bypass Vulnerability (CVE-2026-7022)

A security vulnerability, CVE-2026-7022, has been identified in SmythOS sre versions up to 0.0.15. The vulnerability resides in the AgentRuntime function within the packages/core/src/subsystems/AgentManager/AgentRuntime.class.ts file, specifically affecting the HTTP Header Handler. By manipulating the X-DEBUG-RUN and X-DEBUG-INJ arguments within HTTP headers, an attacker can bypass authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability is remotely exploitable and has a publicly available exploit, posing a significant risk to systems running vulnerable versions of SmythOS sre. The vendor was notified but did not respond.

Attack Chain

1. The attacker identifies a SmythOS sre instance running version 0.0.15 or earlier.
2. The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request targeting the AgentRuntime function.
3. The attacker includes specially crafted X-DEBUG-RUN and/or X-DEBUG-INJ headers in the HTTP request.
4. The vulnerable AgentRuntime function improperly processes these headers.
5. The system bypasses authentication checks due to the manipulated header values.
6. The attacker gains unauthorized access to protected resources or functionalities.
7. The attacker performs privileged actions or exfiltrates sensitive data.

Impact

Successful exploitation of CVE-2026-7022 allows an attacker to bypass authentication, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system configurations, or disruption of services. Given the public availability of the exploit, vulnerable systems are at high risk of attack.

Recommendation

• Apply appropriate input validation and sanitization to the AgentRuntime function within packages/core/src/subsystems/AgentManager/AgentRuntime.class.ts to prevent manipulation of X-DEBUG-RUN and X-DEBUG-INJ headers (CVE-2026-7022).
• Deploy the provided Sigma rule to detect exploitation attempts targeting the vulnerable AgentRuntime function.
• Monitor web server logs for HTTP requests containing suspicious X-DEBUG-RUN and X-DEBUG-INJ headers.