CVE-2026-32148: Lockfile checksums not verified in Hex allows dependency integrity bypass
Insufficient Verification of Data Authenticity vulnerability in hexpm hex (Hex.RemoteConverger module) allows dependency integrity bypass via unverified lockfile checksums. Hex stores checksums for dependencies in the mix.lock file to ensure reproducible and integrity-checked builds. However, Hex.RemoteConverger.verify_resolved/2 never executes checksum verification because the lock data returned by Hex.Utils.lock/1 uses string-based dependency names, while the verification logic compares against atom-based names. This type mismatch causes the verification code path to be silently skipped. Checksums are still validated when packages are initially downloaded from the registry, but mismatches between the lockfile and resolved dependencies are not detected. An attacker who can influence cached packages (e.g., via local cache poisoning or a compromised registry) can provide modified dependency contents that will be accepted without detection. The mix.lock file is silently rewritten with the checksum values from the registry, erasing evidence of tampering. This issue affects hex: from 0.16.0 before 2.4.2.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-32148?
CVE-2026-32148 is considered a high severity vulnerability due to the potential for dependency integrity bypass.
How do I fix CVE-2026-32148?
To fix CVE-2026-32148, upgrade the hex package to a version that includes the fix for the unverified lockfile checksums.
What software is affected by CVE-2026-32148?
CVE-2026-32148 affects versions of the hexpm/hex software from 0.16.0 to 2.4.2.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-32148?
CVE-2026-32148 is classified as an Insufficient Verification of Data Authenticity vulnerability.
What can be exploited in CVE-2026-32148?
CVE-2026-32148 allows attackers to bypass dependency integrity checks by exploiting unverified lockfile checksums.