Race Condition in GLib2 g_file_replace() Enables File Redirect
CVE-2026-86469 Published on September 7, 2026
Glib2: toctou symlink race in `g_file_create_replace_destination` fallback path
A flaw was found in GLib2. When g_file_replace() is used with G_FILE_CREATE_REPLACE_DESTINATION and creating the .goutputstream-XXXXXX temporary file fails, the library unlinks the destination and recreates it without exclusive creation or symlink protection. A local attacker who can write to the destination directory can win that race and redirect the write to another file.
Vulnerability Analysis
CVE-2026-86469 can be exploited with local system access, and requires small amount of user privileges. This vulnerability is consided to have a high level of attack complexity. The potential impact of an exploit of this vulnerability is considered to have no impact on confidentiality, a high impact on integrity, and a small impact on availability.
Timeline
Reported to Red Hat.
Made public. 119 days later.
Weakness Type
What is an insecure temporary file Vulnerability?
The software attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
CVE-2026-86469 has been classified to as an insecure temporary file vulnerability or weakness.
Products Associated with CVE-2026-86469
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