CVE-2026-85491

8.8

Perl · Catalyst::Seal

Catalyst::Seal versions before 0.03 for Perl contain a dispatch memoization flaw that allows an attacker to bypass authorization checks or disable specific application paths.

Executive summary

A vulnerability in the Catalyst::Seal Perl module allows authenticated attackers to bypass security controls or cause denial of service by manipulating request dispatch memoization.

Vulnerability

The vulnerability arises from improper memoization of request dispatch paths, which fail to account for request-specific state such as HTTP methods or content types. An authenticated user can leverage this flaw to replay incorrect dispatch results, effectively bypassing authorization checks or rendering application paths inaccessible.

Business impact

The exploitation of this flaw can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive application functions or a persistent denial of service for specific routes. With a CVSS score of 8.8, this vulnerability represents a significant risk to data integrity and system availability, particularly in applications relying on Catalyst::Seal for complex routing and authorization enforcement.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Upgrade the Catalyst::Seal Perl module to version 0.03 or later to incorporate the corrected dispatch logic.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor application access logs for unusual patterns of failed requests or unexpected dispatch behaviors that might indicate attempts to manipulate the memoization cache.

Compensating Controls: If immediate patching is not feasible, restrict access to the affected application endpoints using network-level controls or a Web Application Firewall configured to validate request methods and headers strictly.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: Unknown.

Analyst recommendation

Given the severity of this authorization bypass, administrators must prioritize updating the Catalyst::Seal package to version 0.03 immediately. Failure to address this flaw could permit attackers to circumvent intended security boundaries within the application, leading to unauthorized state changes or service disruption.

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History

CVE Brief tracked this CVE 1 day before it had a CVSS score.

  1. Disclosed CVE record published
  2. Collected by CVE Brief No CVSS score yet; tracked as early warning
  3. CVSS score assigned 8.8 (3.1) from cvelistV5
  4. Analyst report written
  5. Published in the daily brief high section

Sources