Platform
cpan
Component
grid::machine
Fixed in
0.127.1
CVE-2026-4851 describes an Insecure Deserialization vulnerability affecting GRID::Machine, a Perl module providing RPC over SSH. This flaw allows a compromised remote host to execute arbitrary code on the client due to unsafe deserialization within the RPC protocol. Versions 0.0 through 0.127 are vulnerable. A fix is expected to be released by the GRID::Machine maintainers.
The vulnerability lies within the read_operation() function in lib/GRID/Machine/Message.pm, which uses eval() to process data received from remote hosts. This eval() call is executed on raw bytes received over the network, making it susceptible to malicious input. An attacker controlling a remote host can craft a malicious payload that, when deserialized, will be executed on the client machine. This effectively grants the attacker arbitrary code execution capabilities. The potential impact is significant, allowing attackers to gain full control of the affected system, steal sensitive data, or pivot to other systems within the network. This vulnerability shares similarities with other deserialization vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly evaluated, potentially leading to remote code execution.
This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on 2026-03-29. Its presence on CPAN raises concerns about widespread exposure, as many Perl applications rely on modules from this repository. The severity is pending evaluation, but the potential for arbitrary code execution suggests a high-risk profile. No public proof-of-concept (PoC) has been released as of this writing, but the ease of exploitation given the use of eval() on untrusted data increases the likelihood of a PoC emerging. It is not currently listed on CISA KEV.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.09% (25% percentile)
The primary mitigation is to upgrade to a patched version of GRID::Machine. Unfortunately, a fixed version is not yet available. As a temporary workaround, restrict access to the RPC service to trusted hosts only. Implement strict input validation on the remote side to prevent malicious data from being sent. Consider using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or proxy to filter potentially malicious traffic. Monitor system logs for unusual activity related to GRID::Machine. After upgrading to a patched version (when available), confirm the fix by attempting to trigger the deserialization vulnerability with a known malicious payload and verifying that it is no longer exploitable.
Update the GRID::Machine module to a version later than 0.127, if available. Otherwise, avoid using this module or ensure that remote hosts are trusted to prevent arbitrary code execution on the client.
Vulnerability analysis and critical alerts directly to your inbox.
CVE-2026-4851 is a vulnerability in GRID::Machine versions 0.0-0.127 that allows arbitrary code execution due to unsafe deserialization in the RPC protocol. An attacker can exploit this to run malicious code on the client.
If you are using GRID::Machine versions 0.0 through 0.127, you are potentially affected. Check your installed version using cpan list | grep GRID::Machine.
Upgrade to a patched version of GRID::Machine. As of now, a fix is not available. Implement workarounds like restricting access and input validation until a patch is released.
No active exploitation has been confirmed, but the vulnerability's nature and ease of potential exploitation suggest a risk of future exploitation.
Check the GRID::Machine project's website and CPAN for updates and advisories related to CVE-2026-4851.
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