CVE-2026-45988
Published: May 27, 2026· Updated: May 30, 2026
Official Description
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
rxrpc: Fix re-decryption of RESPONSE packets
If a RESPONSE packet gets a temporary failure during processing, it may end
up in a partially decrypted state - and then get requeued for a retry.
Fix this by just discarding the packet; we will send another CHALLENGE
packet and thereby elicit a further response. Similarly, discard an
incoming CHALLENGE packet if we get an error whilst generating a RESPONSE;
the server will send another CHALLENGE.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2026-45988 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
All References (5)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2026-45988 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts