CVE-2026-42482
Published: May 1, 2026· Updated: May 1, 2026
Official Description
A stack-based buffer overflow in mangle_to_hex_lower() and mangle_to_hex_upper() in src/rp_cpu.c in hashcat v7.1.2 allows an attacker to cause a denial of service or possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted rule file, or via the -j or -k rule options used with password candidates of 128 or more characters. The vulnerability is caused by a bounds check that fails to account for the 2x expansion that occurs when password bytes are converted to hexadecimal.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-42482 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2026-42482 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts