WordPress 2.6.2 released for security reasons
Free blog software WordPress notifies of a security update in its 2.6.2 version.
The WordPress security breaches were discoverd by Stefan Esser. They are based partly on SQL column truncation and partly on the weakness of the mt_rand() function. These breaches are especially noticeable if open registration is allowed on the blog. An immediate WordPress upgrade is recommended for such blogs.
As the developers make clear in their announcement, it is possible in WordPress to reset another user's password. Taken alone this may be a mere annoyance to users, but combined with the weakness of the mt_rand() function there is a risk that the randomly generated password can be predicted. The discoverer of this security breach will release details soon. Possible other PHP applications are susceptible, according to the WordPress Blog. The project recommends a patch, but certainly an upgrade to 2.6.2 in case open user registration is enabled. The upgrade also includes a number of bug fixes.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.