CVE-2003-0972

CVE-2003-0972 is a critical-severity vulnerability in Gnu Screen with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 10.0. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low.

Key facts

Description

Integer signedness error in ansi.c for GNU screen 4.0.1 and earlier, and 3.9.15 and earlier, allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a large number of ";" (semicolon) characters in escape sequences, which leads to a buffer overflow.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2003-0972?
Integer signedness error in ansi.c for GNU screen 4.0.1 and earlier, and 3.9.15 and earlier, allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a large number of ";" (semicolon) characters in escape sequences, which leads to a buffer overflow.
How severe is CVE-2003-0972?
CVE-2003-0972 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 10.0, rated critical severity.
Is CVE-2003-0972 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 3% (87th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2003-0972?
CVE-2003-0972 primarily affects Gnu Screen. In total, 8 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2003-0972?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its critical severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2003-0972 published?
CVE-2003-0972 was published on 2003-12-15 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (8)

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