CVE-2026-40542
Description
A flaw was found in Apache HttpClient. This vulnerability allows a remote attacker to bypass a critical step in the SCRAM-SHA-256 authentication process. By exploiting this, an attacker can trick the client into accepting authentication without proper mutual verification, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of data.
Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) Score Details
Info alert:Important note
CVSS scores for open source components depend on vendor-specific factors (e.g. version or build chain). Therefore, Red Hat's score and impact rating can be different from NVD and other vendors. Red Hat remains the authoritative CVE Naming Authority (CNA) source for its products and services (see Red Hat classifications).
The following CVSS metrics and score provided are preliminary and subject to review.
CVSS v3 Score Breakdown
| Red Hat | NVD | cve.org | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Score | 7.3 | N/A | 7.3 |
| Attack Vector | Network | N/A | Network |
| Attack Complexity | Low | N/A | Low |
| Privileges Required | None | N/A | None |
| User Interaction | None | N/A | None |
| Scope | Unchanged | N/A | Unchanged |
| Confidentiality | Low | N/A | Low |
| Integrity Impact | Low | N/A | Low |
| Availability Impact | Low | N/A | Low |
Vector
Red Hat: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:L
cve.org: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:L
Understanding the Weakness (CWE)
Access Control
Technical Impact: Bypass Protection Mechanism
Confidentiality,Integrity
Technical Impact: Read Application Data; Modify Application Data
Accountability,Non-Repudiation
Technical Impact: Hide Activities
Frequently Asked Questions
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