CVE-2003-0171

CVE-2003-0171 is a high-severity vulnerability in Apple Mac Os X 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

DirectoryServices in MacOS X trusts the PATH environment variable to locate and execute the touch command, which allows local users to execute arbitrary commands by modifying the PATH to point to a directory containing a malicious touch program.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2003-0171?
DirectoryServices in MacOS X trusts the PATH environment variable to locate and execute the touch command, which allows local users to execute arbitrary commands by modifying the PATH to point to a directory containing a malicious touch program.
How severe is CVE-2003-0171?
CVE-2003-0171 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2003-0171 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 1% (56th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2003-0171?
CVE-2003-0171 primarily affects Apple Mac Os X. In total, 22 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2003-0171?
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-2003-0171 published?
CVE-2003-0171 was published on 2003-05-05 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (22)

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