CVE-2026-17435: File::Rotate::Simple versions before 0.4.0 for Perl create the target of dangling symlinks when rotating files
File::Rotate::Simple versions before 0.4.0 for Perl create the target of dangling symlinks when rotating files.
When the file to be rotated is a symbolic link to a missing file, and the touch option is enabled, then the rotate method assumes that the file is absent (since the existence check is against the target), and does not rotate it. But it touches the file, which creates the target.
An attacker that has the ability to create the symlink can use this to create an arbitrary file with permissions of the process rotating the files (which may be different from the process that normally writes to the log file that is being rotated).
Note that the touch option is disabled by default.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
Perl File::Rotate::Simpleto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 0.4.0 - Configuration
Ensure the 'touch' option is disabled. The material notes the touch option is disabled by default, and that when enabled (touch option enabled) behavior differs for symlinks to missing targets.
Perl File::Rotate::Simple touch option = disabled (default)
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-17435?
The severity of CVE-2026-17435 is classified as low risk with a score of 37.
How do I fix CVE-2026-17435?
To fix CVE-2026-17435, you should upgrade File::Rotate::Simple to version 0.4.0 or later.
What issue does CVE-2026-17435 cause when using File::Rotate::Simple?
CVE-2026-17435 causes the creation of dangling symlinks when the file to be rotated is a symbolic link to a missing file.
What version of File::Rotate::Simple is affected by CVE-2026-17435?
File::Rotate::Simple versions prior to 0.4.0 are affected by CVE-2026-17435.
Is the touch option related to the CVE-2026-17435 vulnerability?
Yes, the touch option in File::Rotate::Simple can trigger CVE-2026-17435 when a symbolic link points to a non-existent file.