CVE-2026-33306

What it is

bcrypt-ruby is a Ruby binding for the OpenBSD bcrypt() password hashing algorithm. Prior to version 3.1.22, an integer overflow in the Java BCrypt implementation for JRuby can cause zero iterations in the strengthening loop. Impacted applications must be setting the cost to 31 to see this happen. The JRuby implementation of bcrypt-ruby (`BCrypt.java`) computes the key-strengthening round count as a signed 32-bit integer. When `cost=31` (the maximum allowed by the gem), signed integer overflow causes the round count to become negative, and the strengthening loop executes **zero iterations**. This collapses bcrypt from 2^31 rounds of exponential key-strengthening to effectively constant-time computation — only the initial EksBlowfish key setup and final 64x encryption phase remain. The resulting hash looks valid (`$2a$31$...`) and verifies correctly via `checkpw`, making the weakness invisible to the application. This issue is triggered only when cost=31 is used or when verifying a `$2a$31$` hash. This problem has been fixed in version 3.1.22. As a workaround, set the cost to something less than 31.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited locally on the machine without logging in. High risk of data exposure, data tampering.

Exploit odds

0.2% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2026-03-24 01:17 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 10:37 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.2% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 4.5 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2026-03-24 01:17 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 10:37 UTC

Exploit probability

0.2% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-190 · Integer overflow

Record status

Analyzed

Affected

• bcrypt-ruby Project bcrypt-ruby < 3.1.22

Attack profile CVSS 4.0 · 4.5

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

High

Attack requirements

Present

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

None

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2026-33306.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2026-33306. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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