CVE-2026-46493: HAX CMS Weak Salt Generation Enables Credential Compromise

Technical summary

CVE-2026-46493 stems from the use of `uniqid()` for salt generation in HAX CMS versions prior to 26.0.1. The `uniqid()` function generates values based on the current Unix timestamp and an optional prefix; its output is deterministic and collapsible through timing attacks or brute force. CWE-338 (Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator) classifies this misuse. An attacker who obtains password hashes can combine knowledge of the predictable salt with standard password-cracking tools to mount efficient offline attacks. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N) reflects high confidentiality impact due to feasible hash recovery, but no integrity or availability impact on the system itself.

Business impact

Compromise of user credentials and sensitive account data stored within HAX CMS instances represents the primary risk. Attackers gaining access to user accounts can read confidential microsite content, modify website configurations, or pivot to downstream systems integrating with the CMS. Organizations using HAX CMS for customer-facing or internal microsites face reputational damage, regulatory exposure (GDPR, CCPA), and operational disruption if attacker activity goes undetected. The ease of exploitation (network-accessible, no authentication required) elevates risk for internet-facing deployments.

Affected systems

HAX CMS versions prior to 26.0.1 are affected across both PHP and Node.js backend deployments. The vulnerability applies to all instances regardless of hosting environment or configuration, provided the CMS uses the vulnerable salt-generation code path. Version 26.0.1 and later incorporate a cryptographically sound random salt generation mechanism and are not vulnerable.

Exploitability

This vulnerability is straightforward to exploit. No special privileges, authentication, or user interaction are required. An attacker needs only network access to the HAX CMS instance and a copy of the password hash database (obtained via database breach, exposed backup, or information disclosure). Given the predictable nature of `uniqid()` output, an attacker can enumerate likely salt values and combine them with precomputed password tables or real-time cracking tools. Exploitation does not require a public proof-of-concept; the weakness is inherent to the algorithm choice.

Remediation

Upgrade HAX CMS to version 26.0.1 immediately. This version replaces `uniqid()` with a cryptographically appropriate random salt generation method. No configuration workarounds or mitigation patches exist for earlier versions; an upgrade is mandatory. Organizations should also consider resetting all user passwords post-upgrade to invalidate any salts generated under the vulnerable code, and review access logs for signs of unauthorized authentication attempts during the vulnerable period.

Patch guidance

Apply HAX CMS version 26.0.1 or later. Verify compatibility with your PHP or Node.js runtime environment before upgrading. Test the update in a non-production environment first to confirm backward compatibility with your microsite configurations. Monitor application logs after upgrade for any unexpected behavior. If feasible, force a global password reset for all users after patching to eliminate the risk of compromise via previously generated salts.

Detection guidance

Query your HAX CMS deployment for its version identifier (typically visible in admin panels or via version-disclosure endpoints). If running version 26.0.0 or earlier, the system is vulnerable. In logs, look for unusual authentication failures or rapid login attempts, which may indicate offline password-cracking activity being tested in production. If a breach is suspected, examine database access logs and authentication logs for the window during which HAX CMS was running the vulnerable code. Consider deploying a web application firewall rule to flag unusual patterns of failed authentication from the same source IP.

Why prioritize this

A CVSS 7.5 (HIGH) vulnerability affecting user credential confidentiality with network accessibility and no authentication barrier should be prioritized for immediate remediation. The weakness is trivial to exploit post-breach and exposes every user account in the system. Organizations running customer-facing or sensitive microsites should treat this as urgent; internal deployments are secondary but still require prompt attention. The fix is straightforward (version bump), reducing operational friction.

Risk score, explained

The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.5 reflects: (1) Network vector — attackers need only network-level access, not physical or local access; (2) Low attack complexity — no special conditions or timing; (3) No privileges or user interaction required; (4) High confidentiality impact — passwords and user data become vulnerable to offline cracking; (5) No impact to integrity or availability of the CMS itself. The score does not account for likelihood of breach detection, organizational maturity, or asset sensitivity, which may warrant higher internal risk ratings in some environments.

Frequently asked questions