CVE-1999-1471

CVE-1999-1471 is a high-severity vulnerability in Bsd with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low.

Key facts

Description

Buffer overflow in passwd in BSD based operating systems 4.3 and earlier allows local users to gain root privileges by specifying a long shell or GECOS field.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-1999-1471?
Buffer overflow in passwd in BSD based operating systems 4.3 and earlier allows local users to gain root privileges by specifying a long shell or GECOS field.
How severe is CVE-1999-1471?
CVE-1999-1471 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.
Is CVE-1999-1471 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 1% (40th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-1999-1471?
CVE-1999-1471 primarily affects Bsd. In total, 2 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-1999-1471?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-1999-1471 published?
CVE-1999-1471 was published on 1989-01-01 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (2)

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