External risk intelligence

goshs SFTP bypass allows attackers to access files without a password

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2026-40884

This vulnerability affects an SFTP file transfer service component within the goshs application. File transfer services and remote resource management tools are commonly deployed in internet-facing or DMZ configurations to facilitate external connectivity and file exchange. Therefore, it is probable that such a service would be exposed to an untrusted network.

Missing Authentication

Goshs

before 2.0.02.0.0

Halo Surface Signal: 4 out of 5 — likely to be public-facing.

External exposure likelihood

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This vulnerability in goshs allows an unauthenticated attacker to bypass SFTP authentication and access files without a password. The issue arises when the server is configured for SFTP with a specific basic authentication setting that fails to implement password handling, potentially exposing sensitive data.

  • Allows unauthorized file access remotely.
  • Affects SFTP services of goshs.
  • Exposes sensitive information.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An unauthenticated network attacker can exploit this flaw by connecting to the SFTP service on a vulnerable goshs server. If the server was misconfigured with the empty-username basic-auth syntax and SFTP enabled, the attacker can bypass authentication entirely and gain access to files.

  • Network access needed.
  • SFTP service and incorrect config.
  • Server started with specific flags.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

Attackers are likely to weaponize this CVE due to its direct impact on an SFTP service, allowing unauthenticated network access to files without a password. This type of vulnerability is attractive because it offers immediate access to sensitive data or a pathway into internal networks, bypassing standard authentication controls. The ease of exploitation combined with the critical nature of SFTP services makes it a prime target.

  • Public exploit code is unavailable.
  • No KEV listing.
  • Fix released recently.

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

Prioritize immediate mitigation for the goshs SFTP authentication bypass, as unauthenticated attackers can access files. This critical vulnerability allows for remote code execution and data exfiltration.

  • Update goshs to 2.0.0-beta.6.
  • Block network access to SFTP ports.
  • Monitor SFTP logs for unauthorized access.

Supplementary metadata

Validate whether this threat affects your internet-facing exposure.

Halo Threat Intelligence helps prioritize remediation with Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context. Start exposure validation with a free external attack surface trial.

Frequently asked questions

What is goshs and what is it used for?

goshs is a SimpleHTTPServer built using the Go programming language. It is used to serve files over a network. The vulnerability discussed affects its SFTP service.

What kind of weakness does CVE-2026-40884 describe?

CVE-2026-40884 describes an SFTP authentication bypass, categorized as CWE-306. This means that under specific configurations, the server fails to enforce proper authentication, allowing unauthorized access.

How can an attacker exploit the goshs SFTP vulnerability?

An attacker can exploit this by connecting to the SFTP service of a vulnerable goshs server. If the server was started with a specific empty-username basic-auth syntax along with SFTP enabled, the attacker can access files without needing any credentials.

Who should be concerned about this CVE-2026-40884 threat?

Organizations running goshs with SFTP services that are accessible from the internet or a less trusted network should be concerned. This is because the vulnerability allows for unauthenticated network access, potentially exposing sensitive data.

What is the first step to address the goshs SFTP vulnerability?

The primary step is to update goshs to version 2.0.0-beta.6 or later, as this version contains the fix for the SFTP authentication bypass. Alternatively, restricting network access to SFTP ports can serve as a temporary mitigation.

References