Skip to content
Threat Feed
Subscribe
medium threat exploited

Potential Out-of-Bounds Write in rust-openssl AES-KW-PAD Cipher Operations

A potential out-of-bounds write vulnerability, CVE-2026-45784, has been identified in the `rust-openssl` library's `CipherCtxRef::cipher_update_inplace` function when processing AES-KW-PAD ciphers, which could lead to unexpected behavior or potential exploitation by corrupting memory.

A vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2026-45784, has been identified in the rust-openssl cryptographic library. This flaw involves a potential out-of-bounds write within the CipherCtxRef::cipher_update_inplace function, specifically when processing AES-KW-PAD (AES Key Wrap with Padding) ciphers. rust-openssl is a Rust-language wrapper for the widely used OpenSSL library, providing cryptographic functionalities to a multitude of applications. The vulnerability indicates that improper handling of memory boundaries during cryptographic operations could occur, potentially leading to data corruption, denial of service, or, in more severe scenarios, arbitrary code execution. This issue affects applications that rely on the rust-openssl library for cryptographic operations, particularly those utilizing AES-KW-PAD for key wrapping. While details on specific exploitation are not provided, developers and organizations using rust-openssl should prioritize patching to mitigate risks associated with memory corruption vulnerabilities. This is a critical library component, and even a "potential" issue warrants attention due to its widespread use.

Impact

The observed damage from CVE-2026-45784 is currently theoretical, as the advisory details a potential vulnerability rather than active exploitation. However, a successful exploit of an out-of-bounds write in a cryptographic library like rust-openssl could lead to severe consequences. Attackers might be able to corrupt application data, trigger denial-of-service conditions by crashing vulnerable processes, or potentially achieve arbitrary code execution by manipulating memory in a controlled manner. Given the foundational role of rust-openssl in securing communications and data, affected organizations could face compromise of sensitive information, disruption of critical services, or the execution of malicious code within their systems. The exact number of potential victims or targeted sectors is unknown, but any application depending on rust-openssl for AES-KW-PAD operations could be at risk.

Recommendation

  • Patch CVE-2026-45784 by updating all instances of the rust-openssl library to the latest patched version immediately.
  • Review applications that utilize the rust-openssl library, especially those implementing AES-KW-PAD ciphers, to assess exposure and ensure timely updates.